McGinley
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Some weeks are harder than others to write.
Most weeks, I write freely and the words flow. This week is a little harder.
The election caused strong emotions for many; I found myself with many mixed feelings. I understood and accepted the results, but also felt some surprise and sadness. I reminded myself, though, that it’s natural. These are big decisions and each person goes to the voting booth with their own unique situations, experiences and perspectives.
I totally respect the views of others and am happy to live in a democracy where we have the right to vote. Difference of opinion, the right to differ and the option to debate is what makes America great.
I am very hopeful for our future, both across the country and here in Northeastern Pennsylvania.
I felt that way at the Fall Social at the Westmoreland Club’s Grand Hall on Thursday night. Hosted by the Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber of Commerce, nearly 100 community members came together simply to be together — to celebrate the season, to network, to socialize — just because.
I love that. And why not?
Why not come together just because? We don’t need a reason to come together as a community, as caring professionals or as humans.
After weeks and weeks of divide (arguably longer), we all need some togetherness without the divisiveness.
I heard no political talk on Thursday night; all I heard was about who was doing what in the community, what groups were working to make a difference, and how others can help.
I heard a lot of positivity, and honestly we all deserve a dose of that.
Kudos to my dear friend, Eileen Rosengrant, who planned the social. She recently started a new role as program and engagement director at the Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber of Commerce, and I couldn’t be happier for her.
It’s the perfect role for her skillsets: event planning, community building and marketing communications.
She will be an amazing asset to the already outstanding chamber team.
For more information on the chamber and all of their activities, including the upcoming Chamber Annual Dinner, visit www.wyomingvalleychamber.org.
Now that the election is over, let’s get to work on moving forward as a collective community without division. Onward.
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Mike McGinley is a Times Leader columnist who is often called a man about town. Email him thoughts at mikejmcginley@gmail.com.
Mike McGinley is a Times Leader columnist who is often called a man about town. Email him thoughts at mikejmcginley@gmail.com.