Often in these pages, we focus on the people, places and issues that power North Dakota. We tell stories about electric cooperatives, energy policy, economic and community development, and the opportunities and challenges facing our communities.
But every so often, it's important to pause.
November seems like a good month to do so. The harvest nears completion, the days get shorter and, if we’re lucky, road construction season is finally winding down. As another year draws to a close, Veterans Day and Thanksgiving provide an opportunity to reflect on service, sacrifice and gratitude.
Sometimes the reminder to pause and reflect is big and loud, like the cheering of the crowd at an Honor Flight arrival (see page 6). And sometimes it’s small and simple, such as a coin passed from one veteran to another.
A few months back, shortly after I wrapped up speaking to a co-op group, a fellow veteran and cooperative board member handed me a challenge coin from Heroes Compass. Coining is a military tradition that recognizes service and achievement or shares a message.
When Jacob Ryun passed me that coin, he only asked that I take some time to check out their website. I followed his nudge and admired their mission of empowering heroes in our communities, including military veterans, police officers, firefighters and first responders. A noble cause, I thought, and worth sharing.
And with that, it was my turn. I passed the coin to Hope Sisk, our managing editor, and asked her to explore the story, which you can read on page 10. I encourage you to do what Jacob suggested to me, “just check it out.” And, if you feel inclined, pass the mission on to another.
We all know heroes are walking among us every day. Some have worn a uniform. Others have not. Most may never make headlines or receive recognition. However, they’ve made an impact through their service, kindness and concern for others. We find them in our communities, among our families and friends, and within our cooperatives.
As I think more about the stories in this issue, I’m reminded service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. It may just look a little different.
The need for support, connection and purpose never goes away. The reality is many people around us, such as veterans, first responders, co-workers, family members and friends, may be going through things we cannot see.
What I’d like to pass along is a challenge for us all, not just in November, but throughout the year: Look out for one another.
Whether you’ve worn a uniform or not, each of us has the opportunity to help. Sometimes being a hero is about doing something extraordinary. More often, it’s quieter than that. It’s paying attention, reaching out, sharing a story or offering a helping hand.
Like the challenge coins you’ll read about in this issue, your service, kindness and concern for others are meant to be passed along, too.
So, consider this your gentle nudge.
To our veterans and first responders, thank you for your service. And to everyone, happy Thanksgiving!
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Josh Kramer, editor-in-chief of North Dakota Living, is executive vice president and general manager of NDAREC. Contact him at jkramer@ndarec.com.
