A WISH AND A PRAYER FOR 2006

In just a few days we will close the book on the year 2005 and enter a new year with new opportunities. This is always a great time to reflect on the past and plan the future. It is when most of us sit down and evaluate our lives over the past twelve months and seek to make improvements in the coming year.


Our Town leaders should also give thought to successes and failures in 2005. They should seek to learn from their choices and decisions. They should, as we all do, want to make the next year even better then the past.

Since the election in November the Town Council has had to deal with some bad press centered around the controversial decision to release the Town Manager from his duties. This created tension within the Council itself which was evident at the meeting where the vote on the Town Manager was taken.

Now, this issue will be a topic for months to come and it will most likely be brought up during the next campaign. Decisions are open to debate, but should be done without attacks on the character of those making these decisions. The decision was made and the Town Manager has been temporarily replaced, and a search for a permanent replacement is in the works.

As the Town Council moves into the new year, they need to close the door to last year. Put away emotions that will divide and hinder them as a public body. Create a new trust with all members and give each other a chance to succeed in the job you were elected to do. Make the year 2006 a year when political agendas are replaced with the "Peoples Agenda".

This is the season for giving and the greatest gift that our leaders in Town can give to us as citizens is "unity". When a governmental body puts away political ambitions and agenda's it can move mountains. It is when you tackle the big issues of 2006 as a focused, united voice that we will see many great things accomplished. When you decide that the Council business is more important than your Caucus desires, you will excel in your role as a leader of Enfield.

Now, if the next election is the main focus, your work will be halted. If politics is the driving force in addressing problems and concerns, you will hinder your greatness. If pleasing political parties out weighs good old fashion common sense, you will win the praise of a few, but fail in your stewardship to the people.

So here is my prayer for our Town Council for 2006:

May God bless your work on behalf of us, the citizens of Enfield. As you enter a new year may you succeed in all you do, and may your failures be few. When the hours get long, and meetings run late, may you gain strength in knowing that your work is not in vain. When critics insult you and pass along blame, may you know there are many of us who appreciate you, even when we disagree.

May God grant you wisdom beyond your intellect and, clarity of thought in making tough choices. May God bless your families as they share you with the entire community of Enfield. May God give peace and joy in your service to others, which is the greatest of endeavors.

Last, my prayer is that you find and celebrate the value of each Council Member, for in each person elected is the possibility of greatness, while simply attempting to do good.

God Bless our Town Council in 2006

Greg Stokes