2 families share Notable Neighbors

This is a heartfelt thanks to two very special families: The Murrill and Cox families. Wonderful people like you help us remember why we are blessed to live in this community,

On June 8, after a long day at work, I was looking forward to a relaxing evening at home. Little did I know that there would be two phone messages that would have a big effect on my evening.

As I entered the house, I sensed something was wrong. The TV was on, and things looked as though everyone had left in a sudden rush. I called for my son, and received no response. That is when I noticed the persistent blinking on our answering machine. I pushed the play button and listened as a strange but kindly voice explained that they had our dog, Dakota, and they were taking care of him until we could get him.

The person left a number for us to call to get directions. Just then my son burst through the door proclaiming that Dakota had run off and that he and his friend had looked everywhere for him without success. Briefly explaining the phone call, we all ran for the door. Five minutes later, our small caravan of two bicycles and a car pulled into the familys driveway, to find Dakota safely tied up, well-fed and happy.

This kind-hearted family had fed and watered him, enjoyed his company, and made sure he was safe. We thanked them, and departed with the feeling that our words were not adequately expressing how we really felt about their benevolent deed.

Arriving back home at about 6:45, I started to make dinner, and prepare to relax for the remainder of the evening. This is when the second bomb of the evening hit me. My son mentioned he had received a phone call earlier that day from MTA Wireless. Apparently someone had found our cell phone, and MTA had given us their number.

My first thoughts were that someone had stolen the phone, and there would be a huge bill to pay for long-distance calls. So I dialed the number, and spoke to the second wonderful person of the day.

The warm voice on the other end of the line told me her son had found our phone, and they had contacted MTA and asked them to contact us. I asked the lady if she would turn the telephone on. I dialed the number, and it was our phone.

She gave me directions to her home, and once again, I scrambled for the car, this time on a mission to retrieve our phone. I had the privilege of meeting a very special young fellow. After thanking the lady and her husband for taking the time to find out who the phone belonged to, I reflected on how impressive this boy was for doing the responsible thing, and for resisting the temptation to just throw the phone aside or make calls on it.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank both the Murrill and Cox families. We hope other families will read this and realize how much difference a little kindness and a little honesty can make in the lives of one person or family.

Submitted by the Bulawas