For The Love of Home

How do I begin to describe the love many of us have for Ruston? It is so much more than just enjoyment of home or civic pride. We share a sense of history, of community that few other locales can touch. Ruston represents what is good about small-town America – strong connections, caring neighbors, a profound sense of identity.

With that intensity comes a need to give space to other points of view – a challenge when emotions run so deep. Many spoke of the need for healing during the recent campaign season. Meeting this challenge of openness is the first step in healing, even when the other opinion is that Ruston should no longer exist. Disagree, but not hate. Debate, but not scream. Care even when it breaks your heart.

Such is my challenge during this season in our history. I once wrote that Ruston was like a butterfly, ready to emerge from its cocoon in full color. I didn’t realize that butterfly’s are delicate beings and only live a short while. Maybe healing is not possible, especially given that we continue to elect divisive leaders.

So as we debate keeping the Ruston fire department, this is the background that forms the basis for my opinion. The facts are clear; better service for lower cost with our current Ruston department. There is no logical way to dispute the findings of the independent fire committee. But just as important to me, the fabric of who we are is strengthened by having those we know and trust be the first responders to our emergency.

When Eric stopped breathing, when Lisa ripped her knee open, when Michelle fell out of the tree, when Mark’s son lay bleeding to death ~ it was our friends and neighbors who came running to save them. They didn’t get paid, they came because they cared. They are every bit as competent as the paid guys, but they know our names, they hold our hands when we panic, they hug us when we cry. How can we turn away from that? How can we destroy what has given us so much strength? If we loose our own department, it will be nearly impossible to rebuild it.

As important as this issue is to me, I am willing to accept the collective will. But it must be a collective decision. We all have to get involved and speak up, even in this volatile environment. Look objectively at the facts. Openly consider all viewpoints. Make the best decision for you and your family. Then tell the world – we have to make this decision carefully and together. Don’t let the council rush into a contract with Tacoma Fire without fully considering the fire committee recommendations (to keep and build our own department) and without hearing from us. Speak now or we will forever loose another vital thread in the fabric of our community. Karen