KINDNESS AND BEAUTY BROUGHT ME TO OLNEY

In 1977, I was in my late twenties with five children, a dog, and a husband. It was at that time that I decided to relocate to the city of Olney. I can still recall that journey as though it was yesterday. I remember striking out in our 1972 station wagon with a mattress on top. The mattress happened to blow off en route, and a nice gentleman had to catch up to let us know.

My chance encounter inspired the desire to move to the big city of Olney with Rhonda Cagle in Chillicothe, Texas. I met Rhonda after my husband, Joe, prompted me to go to nursing school. First, I had to obtain my GED, which is how I met Rhonda, the GED instructor. I was so drawn to her kindness that I asked her where she was from. She informed me that she was from Olney. I remember going home and telling my husband all about this kind woman I had met from Olney. My thoughts were, ‘If half the people are as nice as this lady, then this is the place I want to move my family to.’ So, I convinced my husband to pack up the kids and relocate to Olney.

My first job was at Hagar Slacks until I started working at Olney Hamilton Hospital in 1978. The rest is history from there. Forty-three years later, I’m still here.

I want to ensure that Olney remains an inviting place that other people would like to call their home, not only with the kindness of the people but also with the beauty of our community. Let us take pride in this great city of which God has allowed us to be a part. In my humble opinion, the citizens of Olney should work with Keep Olney Beautiful to restore the beauty of our city to make this a welcoming place to live.

I am grateful to call Olney home as I have been blessed with such great opportunities in this city through my job, Olney ISD, my church, and neighbors. Let us reflect on Luke 12:48 that says, “For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall much be required.