Fixin' things Before they are (obviously or likely) Broken...with hope and care

Thank you to all who have taken time to learn of the events that transpired ten years ago when a group of youths unfortunately went to the Falls in Falls Village Ct on a high, fast-water day. The main problems were minors going (even with permission from some adults) and the fast water, particularly going into the water.

Three youths were saved and for that we could ring some bells and have a special time of gratitude...for all who have miracle saves or survive close calls. Then there are lessons to be shared throughout the country and the greater world...mainly to supervise youth who have a knack for pushing limits (whether set or natural ones that most people respect due to caution or common sense.)

Then there's the big 'surprise element' of someone risking their life, and losing it, to help save someone or try to do so. We could have a more formal time to reflect on that kind of heroism whether from the past, present or even anticipate 'that could be any of us, given certain circumstances.'

What we really need is a willingness to consider what we can do as communities, schools, faith and civic groups, families and other social groups and as partners (with one other ideally who we are informing about our life in general, whether that is a family member, friend or minister or counselor or social connection or romantic partner.)

The idea of a 'full court press' to engage everyone in a 'basic buddy system' reporting their basic whereabouts (with a text for any big changes in a routine or more information about contacts if mail piles up or someone is not reachable or needs help etc.) See? There are many areas of life that could use 'fine tuning.'

Then basic safety and life care routines (including going to a doctor and a counselor (informal is fine or again some trustworthy friends, online help and more) to check in with one's physical well-being (including those simple tests such as Cologuard and other screenings.) Helping one another access basic services and supplies to stay in the game of life could be the next cool way to 'be a meaningful team player.'

Okay, so those are a few ways to get the ball rolling for some who may be 'left behind' or not aware life is a team sport and every player is needed and counts. The more willing people are to tune into a group energy the more likely they will self-monitor even when driving where the rubber meets the road and we need people to bring their A-game to the privilege and skill of driving with a lot of supervision until they are very competent in all kinds of weather (ideally a year after obtaining a license and having a job 10 hours a week or something in the realm of routine and meaningful.)

Doesn't hurt to build up resumes with volunteer work and learning basic auto mechanics and how to pay one's car insurance and other basics, even pitching in 25-and up a week to one's parents to get used to 'paying for rent and living somewhere."

The parents can always use that to offset car insurance and using an app YNAB or Mint or one with your bank to track expenses is a worthwhile way to help one stay connected with the 'inputs and outputs' of monetary resources.

Thanks for thinking on these mundane matters but realize all youth and plenty of adults are still on the learning treadmill, so it's all with good intentions. As a bonus safety tip for these summer days, find out weather in advance of leaving home especially for outdoor events or long drives. Plan to not be in thundering areas (for swimming etc) since lightning can strike within 10 miles.

If you can hear thunder, you're in That Zone...and that's the only 'zapping' warning you should need, a thunder clap. Getting under cover but not under a tree or pavillon is a good idea.

No one should be a sitting duck then be struck out of luck.Double that if one has small children. A ride should be a quick phone call away, and maybe buddy systems to let people go in a shelter would be the go-to guideline to avoid 'mismanagement' especially by a town or public enterprise.

No need for more lawsuits. That's the main reason to avoid having young drivers do the bulk of driving without supervision. There is likely a lot of fine tuning needed, with the mechanics but moreover with various situations and social skills etc.