“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
Today’s world is complicated, and emotions are running high. It’s been a tough year for those in law enforcement as the world grapples with decisions made by a few that affect the many. While we may not all agree on how we solve the big issues of this world, nor is that the purpose of this blog, I think we can all agree that the world is a better place when we love one another, seek to encourage and find ways we can all support those we know are struggling. This is for our friends in law enforcement, or those who are married to an officer who have struggled this year like no other.
Here are a few ways we can all encourage those working in law enforcement, their families, dispatchers and support personnel.
This post is sponsored by The Behind the Badge Foundation
Encouraging Texts
Reach out to your friends who are in law enforcement and let them know you are thinking about them. Something as simple as that can mean the world to someone who feels unappreciated.
Have your Kids Write Letters
Many police stations hang up correspondence like this in the hallways and throughout the station for inspiration. A simple note of gratitude or a picture from your child is great. This would make a wonderful community service project as well.
An example of a mom who did just that!
Thumbs Up & A Wave
While you are driving around if you see a police officer, give them a wave or a thumbs up. It just goes a long way for them to see that they are appreciated.
Help Them Out
Police officers are working tons of overtime right now. What if you showed up to mow their lawn, brought them dinner or helped out their family in a simple way? This works best with people you know directly. If you want to bless someone you don’t know as well consider a gift card to a local restaurant instead of making them dinner.
Remember Dispatchers & Support Personnel Too
Dispatchers and support personnel play a large role in police stations. Don’t forget to extend your gratitude to them as well.
Support the Behind the Badge Foundation
The mission of Behind the Badge Foundation is to honor law enforcement officers who have died or suffered serious injury in the line of duty. They serve as a trusted resource, providing immediate and ongoing support to families, agencies and communities in times of critical need. They also maintain the Washington State Law Enforcement Memorial, commemorating the lives and dedication of officers who have died in service to the state of Washington. You can donate today by visiting the Behind the Badge Foundation website.
We are so grateful to those who put their lives on the line to protect us daily. It doesn’t take much to change someone’s day. 2020 is hard. I think we should all acknowledge that. Love on those around you with simple acts of kindness that can make all the difference.
