Thanks for writing ‘Compton’s Corner’

To the editor:

I’ve not had the privilege to meet Ben Compton in person, but I can say I will miss you. We will say “take care,” but not goodbye. There is a saying that you can take the person out of Alaska, but you can’t take Alaska out of the person. Thank you, Ben, for taking the time to write your column. I’ve enjoyed it! I’ve enjoyed your perspective of practicality and common sense, of reading of your struggles to make ends meet, of trying to find balance between the materialistic “need it now” world and the values you want to instill in your children, of your hope to raise up good citizens.

I understand the magnitude of the decision you’ve made. After several years of traveling back and forth to care for my mother I spent three years away from my home in Palmer, gainful employment, my friends, family and a lifestyle that was quite comfortable to care for her. While there were many difficult and measurable tolls on many other areas of my life as a result of that decision, I would do it all again. The acts of providing daily love, care and company to my mother enriched her life and also brought joy to me. I’m confident you will find the beauty in your new environment. It’s there — sometimes we have to simply look for it. May God richly bless you and all members of your family. Hopefully you will someday return to Alaska and to the Mat-Su.

Vicki Kluever

Palmer