Parkland Mayor Rich Walker.
A Message from Mayor Rich Walker
If you have ever wanted to try something new, now is the time. January gives us the perfect opportunity to enrich and expand. And when we talk about trying something new, it does not have to be a monumental, dramatic attempt. I’m talking about anything from tasting a food that is new to you, to learning the latest dance steps, to mapping out another route on your morning walk.
It could even be trying out a new perspective. When you talk to your friends, consider their points of view. Listening to someone else’s story is a healthy exchange. Applying what you learn about them to how you see the world – well, that’s even better.
Let’s break out of our silos for a moment and think about people we interact with every day. For example, if we think about a teen’s perspective, imagine what it might feel like to walk to the bus stop in the dark, start school at 7:30 a.m., sit in classes for most of the day, and come home with only a few hours left before the cycle starts again. Or what about your neighbor’s commute? What would your experience be like, if you had to drive two hours to get to work, and two hours back – every day?
Parkland is a tight-knit, strong community. We cross paths with the same people multiple times throughout the week. We all have something that presents a challenge for us – and sharing stories about our hurdles may help ease our stress or alleviate some of the loneliness we may feel in certain situations. This isn’t about complaining. It’s about sharing, growing, and understanding.
As the novelty of New Year wishes subsides, look around before you take a step forward and look at things from a different angle. Seeing something through another’s eyes may give you insights to help them through a rough patch – and it could help you, too.
Happy New Year.
If you would like to share your thoughts or if you have questions or comments you would like to share, I would love to hear from you. I can be reached via e-mail at rwalker@cityofparkland.org or via cell phone at (973) 390-1453. Of course, I am frequently available monthly at Parkland businesses and love to talk with residents there. I encourage you to visit the City’s website cityofparkland.org and click on the social media icon that you prefer, to ensure that you stay informed on events and helpful information.
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