Peggy and I are big on traditions. We love to start and continue practices that bring us together as a family and hopefully create memories in the minds of our children. One of the traditions Peggy started quite a few years ago was to read a Christmas story to the children every night starting on December 1 and finishing up on the night before Santa’s arrival. Reading time was always followed by hot chocolate and something sweet to munch on.
As the older of our children grew up they began reading their favorite Christmas story to us and even prepared the treat for the evening. I recall these evenings as very special times and a short break from the hectic pace that we sometimes impose on ourselves this time of the year.
Well, the years have gone by and almost all of the children have grown up and moved on to establish their own lives, carry on our family traditions and even start some of their own. Now we are down to Peggy, Mackenzie and me. But the tradition continues. We try hard to set aside time to read a Christmas story and reflect on its message. And, of course, I always look forward to treat time.
This year, not long after the extended Thanksgiving weekend was over, I spent some time reflecting on what I have to be thankful for. I came up with quite a long list and then struggled to simplify and group what I should be grateful for.
With me it came down to family, friends, work and faith.
Regarding family, I know I am no perfect father but I have tried hard to teach our children the values my parents taught me. If I do half as good as they did with their four children I will consider myself successful. However, make no mistake about it; Peggy is the rock of our family. All of us depend on her for so much that we are always trying to find ways to show our appreciation.
Friendships are so important to our family. I marvel at the number of people all over this country that we can truly call friends. With me, some of those friendships go back many, many years. One of those old friends recently expressed such pleasure in reminding me that our respective families have shared a friendship for over 125 years, going back at least three generations.
What I do for a living will never make me rich or famous, yet it allows me to be creative and feel that I am making a valuable contribution to our community. My work helps define me and gives me additional purpose and for that I am grateful.
I humbly thank God every day for all that He has blessed me with. God helps me to understand what is important in this life. He has taught me that what matters in life is intangible --- things that we cannot buy, rent or borrow.
I have always used the space so generously provided to me by Joyce and Larry Hauk to bring you information about economic development. Today, on behalf of the Copperas Cove EDC Board of Directors and staff, I decided to step away from the usual subject and take a moment to write this message and wish you and yours a wonderful Christmas season and a Happy New Year.
Thank you for allowing us the privilege of serving you.
Polo Enriquez
Executive Director
Copperas Cove Economic Development Corporation