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Guest column

I live here

The generosity of fellow residents is what makes this former military child proud to live in Brandon.

By GAY LYNN LOVE
Published January 28, 2005

I am often asked what it was like growing up in the military. It had advantages and disadvantages.

The good part was living in a variety of places across the country and seeing more than many do in a lifetime. The bad part was never being able to answer the question, "Where are you from?"

Living in this area for more than 18 years has provided me the opportunity to see my children grow up with roots deeply established. I've also enjoyed watching the children of my friends and neighbors grow. Because of the support from Brandon area residents, my husband and I have run our family business together here for nine years. These are personally rewarding experiences that come when you are a part of a community.

But, the most significant part of my life outside of my family has been what I've witnessed while living in Brandon.

I've seen a group of women care for and feed the family of a mom who was fighting cancer. I've seen a family's home burn to the ground in the middle of the night and another family provide for them until they could provide for themselves.

I've seen people volunteer countless hours to coach numerous sports teams and expect nothing in return. I've seen a group of teachers furnish living arrangements, guidance and love to a foster child so she could graduate with her class.

I've seen generations of children and their parents raise money to help pay the medical bills of their beloved preschool teacher. I've seen a group of high school students donate blood in record numbers. I've seen a woman selflessly donate her time as a guardian ad litem.

I've seen a group of people build a church. Recently, I saw a group of kids collect hundreds of supplies for soldiers in Iraq, then say goodbye to their dance teacher, who would deliver the supplies when he reported for duty.

So, when I see the infamous sign, Welcome to Brandon, Great Today Greater Tomorrow, I am reminded it is not the abundance of goods and services, the convenient location nor its beauty that make Brandon great - it is the generous spirit of the people. Now, when someone asks "Where are you from?" I proudly respond Brandon, it's my home.

Love lives on Alafia Ridge Loop in Riverview.

[Last modified January 27, 2005, 09:33:08]