Appreciates YMCA
Seldom do I write letters to this newspaper or any print media. However, in view of the un-civility and bombastic exchanges we deal with almost daily, I decided to write a simple letter, and hopefully it will be viewed with the positive intent I meant it to be.
Approximately 40 years ago I made an investment into a community institution that has proven to be one the wisest decision I ever made. I joined the YMCA. At that time, I was an avid outdoor jogger. But there were days I enjoyed being inside the YMCA. Like many other men my age, we spent considerable energy running up and down the basketball court every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at noon. I wasn’t a good basketball player, but the camaraderie and networking has proven to be invaluable. Even though I’ve gone from being an energetic 26-year-old to a more reserve and cautious sixty-six year old, I still attend the YMCA almost daily. Aside from trying to remain as fit as possible, I enjoy the fellowship and camaraderie.
My children grew up in the Y. Like so many others, they learned to swim and participated in a variety of activities. Swimming is the favorite activity of my two granddaughters, whenever they visit the facility. The YMCA is one of the most positive institutions in our community. It is a place where age, race, gender and socioeconomics seem to be unimportant. It may be the perfect model for the rest of our community. For whatever reason individuals come to the facility during the course of the day, one thing is for sure: new acquaintances will be made. It is a place where individuals talk and assist each other in their activities. Rarely do you hear disagreements or negative conversations.
After 36 years as an elected official, I have my share of critics. As matter of fact, many have voiced their displeasure during my workouts. Rarely did I engage them with any response. Perhaps, it was the calming environment of the YMCA; it’s almost therapeutic. I know our lives are enriched through our participation at church and other institutions. However, I will venture to say, the YMCA is just as rewarding, physically, spiritually and mentally as any institution in our community.
In commending the staff, they are a group of individuals that could make any company proud. Regretfully, Andy Boyd, the director decided to retire. He exemplified the atmosphere that can only be found at the YMCA. Finally, every community has challenges. Most of them can be resolved with good leadership and money. I have found leaders will not please everyone, and there is never enough money to go around. So let’s start from a positive perspective and work toward a common ground. If you’re bored, angry, disillusioned, mean spirited or just out of shape, join the YMCA. Your life will change.
Leroy Brooks
Columbus
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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