From To The Editor
There’s a unique sense of community that comes from living in a small town. The town becomes more than the place in which we live, it becomes, for many of us, something akin to a large family. Like large families, people in small communities have their differences and arguments, but, for the most part, they also come together to celebrate each other’s triumphs and to comfort each other in times of tragedy.
Last week was about tragedy, as a car accident claimed the life of a Cordell teenager. And while no amount of emotional or financial support can overcome the loss of Creed Bouse to his family, friends, and the community as a whole, watching the Cordell community respond to this tragedy clearly demonstrates why so many of us make the choice to live in a small community.
The news of the accident spread like wildfire through the town, and in what seemed like an instant, the community responded. A GoFundMe page was set up to assist the family with the unexpected expenses, for those not on the technological side of things, a similar fund was created at Great Plains Bank. Cordell Public Schools brought in counselors and had staff on hand to help other students deal with the emotional fallout, and the Calvary Baptist Church opened its doors to host a remembrance gathering, allowing family and friends to come together to share their memories of the friend and classmate they lost.
The reaction wasn’t limited to Cordell, either. Walking into the new gym at Hobart, Cordell’s basketball teams and fans were immediately greeted by a large banner reading “Cordell Strong,” autographed by Hobart players, cheerleaders, and fans. Time was taken before tip-off to remember Creed and pray for his family. The school’s ducktoss fundraiser at halftime was dedicated to Creed, with the proceeds being donated to his family. Side note to the folks of Hobart: that was an incredibly heart-warming gesture that was much appreciated.
In a world where tragedy is almost a daily occurrence, it is incredible to have witnessed the speed with which this community came together to provide support and friendship to Creed’s family. If there is a silver lining to such a tragedy, perhaps it’s a lesson for all of us about what really matters: family, friends, and community.
Hug your loved ones a little tighter, let them know how much you love them, because you never know what tomorrow will bring.
Bob Henline is managing editor of The Cordell Beacon.