I need to take a break from writing about substance abuse and its prevention in our community. It’s hard, though. I read about the number of DUIs in Gilroy. I read about the heartbreak suffered by the family of Juan Sarmiento, an addict who killed himself and was first reported as homeless and then his family clarified that he wasn’t. The armories are open and focus is given to people who are homeless, many of whom struggle with addictions. There’s news of arguments or violence that require police intervention, all related to alcohol or fueled by some drug use. There’s so much to write about.
But like I said, I need a break. You probably do, too. It’s also that time of year I find most aggravating and makes me cranky. I confessed to a friend yesterday, after a litany of all that was wrong with the day that I wanted the month of December, with the holidays it contains, to drop off the calendar entirely – and it hasn’t even started yet!
So I reach into my notes (I actually make a list) about what I’m grateful for or admire.
First, I admire the George family of Morgan Hill and their partners who renovated and reopened the long-closed bowling alley. There is little for youths and children and families to do after dinner but go out to eat or go to the movies. Opening the bowling alley has provided something hip and fun for all ages. The desperate need for something new and fun to do in Morgan Hill is evidenced by the overflow of parking along Vineyard Boulevard. To Bill, Kristy, Nick and Kim and your partners, thank you for all the work you’ve done to provide this community with an outlet for fun and joy. This new business venture has been an eye-opener, I’m sure, but you’ve handled everything with aplomb and graciousness, and I wish you continued success.
I admire the families of soldiers. Service to one’s country isn’t valued like it used to be. The tradition of proud service to our country through armed service by generations of families is not as common as it once was. In my family I don’t want it to continue. The service started with my grandfather, who loved his new country so much, he went to World War I as soon as he was able. My father’s time in Korea was a highlight of his life. My brother’s made a career. When he left for Iraq, my 15-year-old son asked if I would support his joining the military, and although I told him he can make that decision when he’s 18 and it’s out of my hands, I also said I hoped he’d pursue another direction. Inside, I was screaming, “NO!” My lack of support for the government’s misuse of our military is often misconstrued as lack of support for military personnel. I don’t have the opportunity to associate with a lot of families with loved ones in the military. The vets I interact with are homeless.
While my brother was gone (he recently returned home … thanks to all for the good wishes and prayers), life just moved on as it does. I did my thing, bopping around South County, sticking my nose in everyone’s business as I do, exchanging e-mails about current events and family news with my brother like he’d never left the U.S.
However, when he announced he was coming home, the day of my mother’s 70th birthday, we all breathed a noticeable sigh of relief, but my mother nearly jumped through the roof with joy. At Thanksgiving, watching my mother, I realized I hadn’t noticed how tense she was and how shallow her breathing had become over the previous six months.
There are many family members and friends who have loved ones in the military, in safe or uncertain situations, in Iraq or elsewhere, green or red zones. They are surrounded by people like me who move among them without an awareness of their stress. It’s never noticed unless something wonderful happens, like a safe homecoming, or a tragedy.
So, to all of you who find yourselves breathing a little less deeply than normal because of the worry you constantly keep at bay, I thank you, and I thank your loved one who is away from you and us.
Columnist Dina Campeau is a wife, mother of two teens and a resident of Morgan Hill. Her work for the last seven years has focused on affordable housing and homeless issues in Santa Clara County. Her column will be published each Friday. Reach her at
dc******@ch*****.net
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