Let’s celebrate what makes our lives great.

AM NOTE: Many thanks to Mayor Lockwood for sharing his message with Accessmilton.com readers.

With Independence Day right around the corner, I think it’s the perfect time to take a look around us and be thankful for all the freedoms we share.

Now, I know there are currently a lot of national and state issues that have been, and will continue to be, hotly debated -- and rightly so. It seems like every time you turn around, there an important vote or election. It’s great to see the American political process getting so many people talking. Because that talk means ideas, and ideas mean action, and action means sustaining this great nation.

But regardless of my, or your, personal feelings on the issues, I think we can all agree that it’s an amazing privilege and responsibility to live in a place where these issues are decided in courts and by votes instead of violence. You only need to take a quick look around to see how well the other way works.

So it’s in that spirit that I call upon our residents to come together this Fourth of July and celebrate what ties us together. Let’s have cookouts, let’s share laughs – let’s remember what’s truly important in our lives and put some effort into keeping those relationships strong. Because family, friendships, community – these are the most valuable things we have. Without them nothing else matters.

A perfect opportunity for this type of connection would be the Crabapple Community Association’s Citizen Walking Parade July 4. This volunteer-run event, now in its second year, is a great time. Check out the newsletter for more information on how to participate.

And though it probably goes without saying because of the involved, committed residents Milton enjoys, make sure to take a few moments and remember those who make sacrifices every day … not to mention those who have made sacrifices for the last 236 years.

But I’m not just talking about our soldiers and their families – God bless their unbelievable daily sacrifice. I’m talking about our public safety personnel who routinely put their lives in dangerous situations so the rest of us may celebrate safely. I’m talking about our elected officials, who, despite rough hours and tough decisions, continue to give their time to serve the greater good (remember – don’t let bad apples spoil the whole crop … tough, I know). I’m talking about the legions of teachers and health inspectors and construction superintendents and code enforcement officers and countless others who ensure we live in a well-educated, clean, functioning and safe society.

Yes, we have a long way to go, and nothing will ever be perfect. But if you’ll just take a moment to thank a hard working person, you never know where it may lead. Because remember – freedom means being able to say no. And yet so many say yes, when it’s the much harder choice.

Give me a call or stop by my office sometime to let me know what you think about how we’re doing in Milton – we’re here to serve you.

Sincerely,
Mayor Joe Lockwood