We appreciate you…
Dear Patients & Friends:
Just seven weeks after celebrating our 30th Anniversary in Starkville, a fire ripped through our recently remodeled office on Russell Street.
Not wanting to give Satan any glory here by telling you details of my disappointments, anger, and frustrations since that time, a higher calling would be for me to share with you what “life lessons” this event has taught me thus far.
First and foremost, almost before the smoldering had stopped, we heard there was a prayer chain, and that more than one church was praying for us.
Then there were friends bringing food for the whole first weekend, calls and support, and friends and patients dropping by.
The newspaper and its editor said they would like to do whatever possible
to help us and bring whomever did this to justice. They ran a picture on
the front page along with a story. Of course there were my kids, my staff,
and even my children’s in-laws and their kids, pitching in to do a car
wash, and others pitching in to move fire damaged equipment and charts
to storage.
Last but by no means least, there were the actions of the firefighters who quickly extinguished what must have been an extremely fast burning fire, and the police who keep working on cases like these for extended periods while we all rest comfortably in our beds at night.
Life lessons learned? First, there is a reason all y’alls behavior is collectively called, “Southern hospitality.” Folks from different races, ages and religions have all reached out in various ways showing concern. This is one ex-yankee who is truly humbled, and appreciative.
Second, when we lose material possessions or suffer a loss, nothing beats having family and friends around to help, “pick us up” as the scripture says in Proverbs.
Third, I’ve already forgiven whoever did this. Life is too short to hold anger in your heart for those who despitefully use you. That said, some jail time for those responsible wouldn’t hurt my feelings in the least little bit, and may give them the time necessary to sort through their life ambitions or lack thereof
Dr. Rob
PS: Our temporary location is my home at 314 S. Jackson Street. We hope to return to our office by Thanksgiving. Call 662-323-2371 for an appointment or directions.
Reference: For an article that appeared on the front page of the Starkville Daily News the day after our fire: http://www.starkvilledailynews.com/content/view/166848/