Takin' the Blog for a Walk

thanks for sharing

Posted by Brien Lee on Dec. 5, 2011

Carroll, 1) sound of music, 8) my favorite things, Hope Center, Moreland Family Medicine

I applaud you! The week following one of our most thankful holidays held plenty of opportunity to practice what is preached.

Thankfully the City of Waukesha's budget was finally passed. Without furloughs or large tax increases, the council came together under terrific deadline pressure to put the constituents and city employees first. It takes a rare individual to give so much of themselves, make such an emotional investment in the city, for little more than six thousand dollars a year. A couple aldermen even offered to donate a large portion of their measly pay if it would mean a zero increase and a passed budget!

Other great news we heard last week was enough donations and grants were raised to reopen both the Siena House and the winter men's shelter. "Miss O" and Bernie Juno were seen on Fox 6 last night, as was a former client. The interview with the former client was interesting. She mentioned how surprisingly fast one could find themselves needing help, sometimes just two paychecks away from being homeless. She was certainly grateful for the warmth, meals and bed in her time of need, but also appreciated the help Miss O. and her staff shared with her to get her back on her feet. Siena House's ribbon cutting will be held today thanks to the many dedicated people and companies who continue to put Waukesha's less fortunate first. 

I led the mealtime prayer last Monday for Hope Center's Monday Night Meal Program for the needy. Nervous, though I knew I could use the practice. The prayer came easily with much to be thankful for; friendship and community, Hope Center itself and the volunteers, another bountiful Thanksgiving and delicious hot food  to share. Though the dining room was full we weren't overwhelmed with guests, which was good for more than one reason: less families and individuals needing a free meal must be a good sign, and we had enough food to share. I really dislike running out of food while we're still serving...

"The deaf shall hear..." Well, it wasn't quite like that. Not exactly. I had my 50 year tune-up last week thanks to the good folks at Moreland Family Medicine. Got a couple shots and a plumbing check. Even got talked into a colonoscopy exam at a later date. But most of all they restored my hearing! My one ear would totally close up upon lying down and take several hours to come back in the morning. It made me feel unsteady and was sometimes painful if around loud noise. Even though I've had wax problems in the past I didn't recognize it this time. Thought I may have a cold and wasn't draining properly. They found enough wax in there for a candelabra! With the right equipment they cleaned it out in a hurry, and I have to thank them for what must be a rather nasty job.

Oh, to hear again! While wax protects our ears from dirt and loud noise, too much is not a good thing either. When I could again hear properly I was, and still am, so thankful. Normal everyday sounds are music to me. I'm thrilled to not have to guess what is being said. At work I feel safer; better able to hear every machine operated nearby. I promise to take better care of my hearing from now on.

If everyday sounds are music to my ears, then you can imagine how much I enjoyed Carroll's annual Christmas at Carroll last night. Though the house was packed, was still able to take my usual front row seat. The concert was excellent, as usual, and thanks to my reawakened appreciation for music and every dedicated choir and orchestra member, my heart and mind were wide open to the meaning and feel of the "SLEEPERS, AWAKE!" message. This concert really is Carroll's gift to the community and I once again was thrilled to receive it. The love and warmth I felt, and feel still, will carry me through the long, cold winter.