More Park Security Drama

Posted byThe Fullers FourPosted inPark SecurityTags:,

I have been falling a bit behind in my reports about the on-going happenings at the Lewis Emery Park in Hillsdale, MI. We have been continuing our walks on Sunday (because it is one of our favorite things to do!), and yes, things have been happening.

For one, the regiment is becoming much more of a unit. They are right there when anyone arrives, eager to inspect and take care of whatever business presents itself.

This is a little blurry, taken through the windshield, but you can see these geese are ON IT.

Sergeant Purdy is ever-present, always watching, though not micro-managing in any way. Sometimes he drops back to just watch how his troops are doing.

It’s hard work to be a leader, but Sgt. Purdy is stoic in his duties.

This last week was a bit of a challenge. There has been some buzz in the region because of the success of Sergeant Purdy’s training. Several troops have been transferred out of his unit to become trainers in other units. This has lead to an unprecedented surge in volunteers.

The troops confidently stand at attention. Sgt. Purdy is easy on his troops when he knows they are doing their best, but he keeps an eye out for shenanigans.

Nothing is neglected here. Having finished his segment on armed engagements, Sergeant Purdy was just starting a refresher course on personal hygiene. Out of the blue, two volunteers showed up and tried to join the exercise.

The newcomers arrive, a pair of mallards.
They quickly split apart when Sergeant Purdy arrived to look them over.
No one could deny the green-headed mallard was handsome.
He knew the water droplets would enhance the look of his shiny feathers.
This female was demure, waiting to see what would happen.

But it was not to be.

“There is a time and place for everything.” Sergeant Purdy explained. The protocol for volunteering does not include barging in during bath time.
At his command, all the troops fell to their duties.
Officers are entitled to some privileges. Here, a troop creates a moment of privacy for the hard-working sergeant.

Interrupting this peaceful time, a loud honking announced the entry of two late troops, who were racing back to base.

“Wait for us.”
I had to admit, he nailed the landing.

But once again, there is a right way to do things. And flashy late arrivals, even though they are exciting, are not the way to earn respect from one’s commanding officer.

To preserve dignity, Sergeant Purdy ignored the latecomers at first.
At his order, all troops left the lake so that only the tardy troops remained.
They were in time to clean up, though.

There is always something going on at the lake, if you have eyes to see it.

We have been enjoying this park, with these lakes and all these creatures, for many years. Almost every Sunday, we walk under the beautiful trees, and enjoy sharing the world with the other creatures that God has made. In this wonderful place, surrounded by those who love God, it’s easy to forget the pain of the world.

But God has not forgotten. And while it’s nice to take a break, we must not forget those who are suffering, either. We have been called for a purpose, my dear friends, and I know that purpose is on your hearts like it is on ours! We must always be ready to reach out to those who are hurting, and show the lost how to find true peace with God through Jesus Christ.

Beautiful swans and lovey fishers.

There is a lot of waiting to do while one is fishing, and the patience to wait is what produces the best fish. Fishermen spend a lot of time just being present, but it is active waiting. Like us, they are alert for opportunities.

Be awake and alive my dear friends! The weather is turning, and the true colors are coming out. May the Father of Lights bless your every day, and fill you with His joy, which is our strength!

You are surrounded by emissaries of His love: God made everything you can touch, taste, hear, see and smell! When you notice and take comfort in the beauty of His creation, you are glorifying Him. And He loves to hear the praises of His people, so don’t hold back! Much love to you!

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