Reflections on a Week of Emotions and Community Spirit

by Julia McMichael

This week has been a whirlwind of emotions, reminiscent of the classic television show, “The Week that Was.” From the unpredictable swings of hot and cool weather to the chaos of train and traffic jams, the events of the past few days have left a profound impact on me. Amidst the highs and lows, I have experienced a spectrum of feelings—love, happiness, sorrow, kindness, selfishness, and prejudice. Yet, the most haunting emotion of all has been guilt.

A few weeks ago, a young man tragically lost his life, alone and without the help of those who might have cared. I was aware of his struggles, yet I chose to turn a blind eye, caught up in my own busy life. The teachings of the Christian Bible remind us that helping those in need is akin to serving the Savior. In my inaction, I lost a blessing and now carry the weight of guilt. It’s a painful reminder of how often we neglect to check in on others, only to find that time has slipped away, and it’s too late.

Guilt is a terrible emotion, but it is also fleeting. We promise ourselves that we will do better, that we will reach out more often, yet the cycle continues. This week has been a stark reminder of the importance of connection and community.

Community Events and Tragedies

In the midst of personal reflections, the community of Westwood Shores Subdivision experienced a mix of joy and tragedy. The recent garage sale was a resounding success, yet it was overshadowed by the news of a young man who attempted to take his own life. The sound of a helicopter overhead on Saturday night was a chilling reminder of the fragility of life. This young man was not from Trinity, but his story resonates deeply within our community.

As we navigate through these emotional currents, it’s essential to stay connected and engaged with one another. October is filled with community events that provide opportunities for connection and support:

• Oct. 4-6: Huntsville Fair on the Square in Huntsville
• Oct. 5: Purse Bingo at the YMCA
• Oct. 5: Trinity County Clean-up Day
• Oct. 8: TISD Scholarship Info Night
• Oct. 12: Brick Street Harmony Quartet at First Presbyterian Church
• Oct. 15: Pumpkin Patch opens at First Methodist Church of Trinity
• Oct. 19: The Calvary Boys in Concert
• Oct. 20: Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church Fall Festival
• Oct. 26: Trinity Lions Club Pet Expo and Talent Show
• Oct. 26: Trinity County Veterans Wall of Honor
• Oct. 31: Treats on the Street

These events not only bring joy but also foster a sense of belonging and community spirit.

Celebrating Community Achievements

Reflecting on the past week, I must also celebrate the successes within our community. The 42 Domino Tournament held at Joseph’s was a fantastic event, and I neglected to mention the winners last week. Congratulations to Rob Hutchings and June Harrell for taking first place, followed by Ivy Phillips and Mary Barnet in second, and Dean Decker and Marian McMillian in third. A special thank you to Kelly Hartsfield, who hosted the event and continues to contribute her talents to our community through her singing and teaching.

Moreover, it’s vital to recognize the individuals who dedicate their time and energy to making a difference. Charles Payne from Point Blank has shown remarkable leadership as the President of the Trinity Lions Club, guiding the organization through the challenges of the pandemic and ensuring its continuity.

Areia Bacon has also made significant contributions, overseeing the Houston Food Bank Truck’s operations at the Trinity Community Center and serving as an administrator for the Head Start Program. Now, as the president of the Trinity Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, she is planning exciting events for the upcoming holiday season while continuing her work with the Trinity Hospital District Board. Her efforts to provide valuable nutrition and health programs at the Martin Senior Center are invaluable to our elderly citizens.

New Initiatives and Opportunities

Speaking of the Martin Senior Citizen Center, I’m excited to announce the introduction of a new dollar store and raffle corner inside the building at 400 Walker St. This initiative offers a chance to win beautiful items while enjoying lunch at the center. It’s a wonderful way to engage with our community and support local initiatives.

In more good news, Dr. Amol Deshpande has returned to his pediatric practice in Trinity, located at 317 Prospect Drive within the MidCoast Hospital facility. His return is a welcome relief for families in our area seeking quality pediatric care.

Lastly, congratulations to Tristan Gustafson, the 2024 Fair Queen Winner! Your hard work and dedication have paid off, and we look forward to seeing your contributions to our community.

As we move forward, let’s remember to check in on one another, participate in community events, and recognize the efforts of those who strive to make our lives better. Don’t forget the purse bingo at the YMCA and the Trinity County Cleanup Day this Saturday. I hope to see you there!