To the editor:
As Lee Mink said, I’m making an effort to say this as nicely as I can, considering how strongly I feel about it.
I am unspeakably proud to be a member of the Bosien family.
From the age of 4 when I was adopted, I have been witness to love in action, day in and day out, for every precious member of this county, through the lives of my parents and brother, Tim. This includes everything from life saving surgery and paramedic services, to food panties and housing, to a million private acts that none except the recipients will ever know.
Last spring I bought some magnetic signs from a local Columbus businessman who is new to this area. After a five-minute exchange of signs and money in Deb’s parking lot, I was bombarded with the vilest, most hateful and harassing e-mails from this man, in the name of Jesus, that I have ever seen. Apparently he was upset that I wouldn’t accept his pamphlets or come to Bible study.
I have a whole series of these emails that I will share with anyone who wants to read them.
He stopped only when I threatened to turn him in to the sheriffs department for harassment and stalking, and contacted his pastor about his behavior. Then it stopped abruptly.
I was so gratified and proud of us as a community when I read all the letters and editorials sticking up for those who are being picked on and bullied by Mr. Olson, (in the name of love, for heavens sake). I think from now on, people who expose their outdated hatred and distain and disrespect for any of the members of this close-knit community, are going to find that we aren’t afraid to point out that the emperor has no clothes.
And… we actually don’t have to listen to it. We have more loving, life-affirming things to do with our time, such as ‘going about doing good’ and ‘doing unto others as we would have done to us’, etc., etc.
(Insert numerous other Bible verses here concerning Love and Community.)
Hurrah for Polk County and all the people here who are dedicated to creating a safe, nurturing, healing place for all who live here.
I would like to give a special shout-out to Lou Parton for her tireless efforts on behalf of our children and those in need. Because of food stamps, I have been able to hang on in these direst financial times.
My Father, “Dr. Bill” and his loving spirit stand shoulder to shoulder with you, as do I. Bless you. Bless you.
There is no ‘fight’ here, just a willingness to turn away from derisive, crude put-downs of those we love, and a continuing on of our service to all. This includes those who are being abused or beaten, the hungry, the sick, the lonely, the disenfranchised… lets ‘franchise’ everyone!
I love you, Polk County. I have been immeasurably blessed by living amongst you. Thank you for taking in an abused, sad little 4-year-old 55 years ago, and giving me the chance to thrive and live a life of great meaning.
In gratitude, I give back my life in service to all, as long as I have strength and breath.
– Cindy Bosien, Mill Spring