Sunday, August 9, 2009

A Norwegian Sendoff

This past weekend was different for us than any other, as we sent our 17-year-old son Lucas to Norway on a Rotary Youth Exchange for the better part of a year. It is bittersweet, as I know this is his chance of a lifetime, and he is ready, but also we will miss him very much.
We have had many changes and opportunities this past year, and I know this is part of a bigger plan for our lives that will enrich us and allow for much personal growth... but, sometimes it is all very difficult. When I think of the societal challenges we face, such as growing a new economy, establishing healthcare coverage for all, and keeping our highways in better condition; we have a lot of work to do, and we must support one another in our endeavors. We must realize and pursue challenges, pushing ourselves beyond our individual limitations, into much needed collaborative solutions.
Just as we have prepared our son these many years to take flight, it is my hope that we will nurture our people, industry, and government to create better balance, and soar past partisanship barriers.