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This week has been packed with riptides, strong undertows and a rainbow of emotions. Yesterday was no exception. How I felt at 8 a.m. was not how I felt when I finally tucked myself into bed...and thank goodness!
The day kicked off with lots of posts on social media that were wallowing in sadness and anger and frustration. I was right there with them. However, the hours passed, hugs and smiles were shared which offered up a spirit of hope and encouragement. And when the sun finally set, posts honoring creativity, compassion and a bold spirit of perseverance prevailed! What I treasure about this small-town community is our ability to band together and bravely move forward through adversity and change.
This morning one of our teacher-heroes proudly posted,
"Yesterday, on a day that was heartbreaking and hard after the failed referendum, I was reminded of the why...I had a meeting scheduled...the parent showed up with a Bubbl'R - my favorite drink - offering kind words that lifted my spirit. Then, I had the privilege of witnessing something truly special: a young 6th grader taking the first step toward his future career by meeting with Wausau Homes Elkhorn to discuss a mentorship. In that moment, I saw unity - a community business, a parent, a student, and a teacher (me) all coming together. It was the most beautiful moment on the toughest day. I train teachers across the nation, and I have friends teaching in schools all over the country, yet never have I heard of the incredible possibilities that exist for students here in Elkhorn. That's something else this referendum cannot take away." - Eryca Card
What wasn't accomplished on a ballot will now be lived out each day via the choices we make. Choices to never give up and keep creating partnerships and pathways for our students, families and businesses here in Elkhorn. Let's choose the narrative where we win even on the days when it feels like a loss because we chose to celebrate the good and get creative when navigating through the not-so-good.
What we share, what we churn on social media and what we focus on will ultimately determine the mood, the mindset and the ability for this community to make a difference. There is an ocean of possibility for us to explore, friends. Stay positive and watch out for those riptides.
#JustKeepSwimming
Kate Abbe
The Elkhorn Chamber
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