Fear, it changes as we age.
Over the years, what we’re afraid of takes a different form.
As children, we’re constantly hiding under the sheets, flashlights in our hands, terrified of the monster under the bed.
In high school, our fears are more realistic. In most cases, teens are worried about what others think of them, if they will get a passing grade on their final exam, or what they’re going to do with the rest of their life.
As an adult, fear morphs into something stronger.
We’re afraid for our family’s safety, and our livelihood.
Across the Lakeland, you can sense that fear. Crime is ever present in residents’ minds, but my question is, what are we doing about it?
And I’m not talking about our politicians, RCMP, or Crown prosecutors.
I’m talking about you and me. The general public.
If you want something done about the crime issue we’re facing in rural Alberta, than do something about it.
I’m not saying everyone is sitting behind their computer screens simply complaining, but what I am saying is the more people that write their MLA, the better.
The more voices that can be heard, the more stories that are shared, just means there is more of a collective community pulling together and telling the government that there is something wrong.
If we don’t put in our own efforts, than what are we telling the future generation?
If we don’t lay the groundwork for our representatives to do their job, than how can we expect anything to change?
I know it sounds like a time consuming effort, sitting down, penning your thoughts, feelings, and stories, but really, it’s not about length, it’s simply about doing it.
The more letters they have, the more ammunition there is to show the government just how bad it really is.
The fact that local representatives actually had a sit-down meeting with the Minister of Justice proves they know there is a problem. That meeting was organized thanks to the letters residents have sent in to the MLA.
It’s physical proof that at the end of the day, the voices of Lakeland residents are being heard.
Our RCMP, Crown prosecutors, and politicians are working hard on their end to do what they can, it’s time we do too.
