I love Merced!
Saturday, Jim and I went kayaking on Lake Yosemite. Being on the water relaxes me and gives me space to breathe. As we were kayaking, I thought about what a gift this lake is. On a clear day, you can see the snowcapped mountains, the golden fields in stark contrast to the color of the water. This lake attracts people from all walks of life to celebrate a wedding, or have a birthday party, or hang with family, or fish in the quiet of the morning.
That made me think about the amazing town we get to live in. A University that equips the next
generation to find solutions to our problems. This group of young people also influences our city, with their energy and passion for life, as well as the many hours of volunteer time they invest in Merced. Businesses that have been in town for generations and have reinvested in our community. Small
companies that provide unique items to purchase, each with their own flair, from arts to food. There are hundreds of non-profits that work within Merced County to make it a better place. The government leads and guides (with community input) the budget and the many services it provides. The schools
where teachers care enough to give their best to educate our children. Our faith community's point
people to a higher calling. Every person in Merced is making a difference! Merced is what it is because
people invested their time, treasure, and talents into this town. Because we know that it takes all of us to make a difference, to make Merced a place of mercy and justice.
Merced is what we make it to be! So today, think about how you can invest into the community you call home.