While at the Hortonville firemen’s parade last Saturday, I was saddened—no, disappointed—to see how much times have changed.

Used to be that on the day of a parade—Memorial Day, firemen’s parades and the like—the people would be lined up rows deep from beginning to finish to show our respect for and our appreciation for these deserving men and women. In my family each year a different person would go early just to reserve a great spot. People of all ages from tiny children to senior residents would stand and cheer as these heroes past.

Now a tiny bunch of people line the street. Where is your gratitude? Your appreciation? Too busy, other things to do: jobs, family. These amazing people also have jobs and families that they leave behind every time you call. They put their lives, which are as busy and important as yours, on hold, miss birthday parties, holiday dinners, kids’ ballgames. They leave their jobs, when the tones drop and hope the boss understands. Why do they do all this, put their lives in danger, and leave their families at all hours? Because you need them.

What if they decided that they were too busy and didn’t show up? They devote hours to you and your family when you call them for help, but we cannot give them one hour to show our appreciation. But we can spend the time to go see a Christmas parade with Santa. Has he ever come when you dialed 911 for help?

The world isn’t changing on its own; we are changing it. We are forgetting what is really important. It isn’t the biggest house, newest car, newest iPhone or fancy electronics. It is old-fashioned values, respect, caring, and gratitude and hometown pride. You chose this as your home. The place you are raising your family, enjoying your golden years.

Remember without the sacrifices made by our neighbors past and present, our hometown would be a very different place.

Babette Walters

Callicoon, NY