Watching the events of last week unfold was a stark reminder of how fragile life is. Life can change in an instant no matter where we are. With the unending news coverage, I kind of felt like I was in Boston too. On Friday, I spent time reading along on a news feed, updated with blips from law enforcement and new officials. I also listened in on the Boston Police Department scanner for a time until the link crashed because of overwhelming traffic. And then when the news that the search was over came across Twitter, I watched the city celebrate and stand in the streets, showing their pride and appreciation for the law enforcement and first responders who worked to keep the city safe.
I couldn’t help but feel pride too. Each time I saw or heard coverage, I thought of the police officers, the fire fighters, the emergency responders, how they are real people with real lives and real families and yet, there they are, fighting a real threat to protect the rest of us. These people volunteer to stand between the good and bad.
Also feeling inspired by the bravery and selfless service of the first responders, Maddy from Somewhere Splendid put together a campaign to help us show our appreciation. Buy a Cup for a Cop is just what is sounds like – buy a cup for a police officer, fire fighter or other first responder when you happen upon one. State that you want to buy them one out of appreciation for their service. Ask what they would like or accompany them to the coffee shop. Maddy also put together a printable gift card sleeve found here if you’d like to go that route. Simply slip a gift card loaded with enough to purchase a cup into the sleeve. The printable explains what we are doing plus it will be a nice reminder of the gift.
And spread the word! If you feel like sharing about your gift giving, you can tag tweets or Instagram with the hashtag #cupsforcops. There are first responders everywhere so let’s get the word out. :)
Take care.
