It was only a matter of time. Not too long ago, my son, Max, and I had an unscheduled meeting to discuss the accuracy of the speedometer in my truck. The meeting began with flashing red and blue lights, followed by a noteworthy self-assessment, which involved me apologizing for my mistake and thanking the Boone County deputy sheriff for his service. After a polite reminder that there have been multiple accidents in the area involving excessive speed, the officer reminded me to please slow down and sent me on my way.
As we drove off, Max remarked that he didn't realize police officers were so nice. This gave me an opportunity to explain two important lessons:
1. Even good people make mistakes, such as driving too fast.
2. Law enforcement officers are people just like you and me. They go to work every day to ensure our families are safe.
Over the last few years, news articles and social media posts about police often cast them in a negative light. Even worse, recent FBI reports show attacks on law enforcement officers are at a 10-year high. Between protesters, the news media and actual criminals, those who protect and serve the public are facing an insurmountable task in just doing their jobs.
Having a father who was the local county sheriff all through my childhood gave me a much more educated perspective. I have seen the good and bad of what it takes to be a public servant. Watching my father put on a uniform and pin that badge on his chest made me appreciate what he did every day — rain or shine.
Plus, I bet there aren't too many kids who can say their brother locked them in the drunk tank on a long Saturday afternoon while their dad was finishing up paperwork at the office.
We live in an amazing country with great schools, jobs and endless opportunities for the American Dream. It's easy to forget that all of this starts with knowing you and your family are safe.
Most importantly, there are men and women who every day put themselves in harm's way, so we are safe. Sometimes, that means stopping people from driving recklessly. Other times that means chasing down terrible people who wish to cause harm to others. Our society is based on the core belief that we can live our lives without fear for our safety. Law enforcement is the cornerstone of this.
I think we should start a new trend. We need to flood our law enforcement with praise, appreciation and respect to outweigh the negativity they experience. The next time you see a police officer, whether they are writing you a ticket or getting a cup of coffee, thank them for keeping you safe.
Caleb Jones is the executive vice president and CEO of Missouri Electric Cooperatives and a member of Boone Electric Cooperative.
