Well this past weekend I got the surprise of a lifetime. I attended the First Florida puppy contest. That always coincides with my anniversary to Rene since we met at the International contest held at the Flamingo Hotel 3 years ago and we go back every year to celebrate.

AS always we attend the contest. This year held indoors due to heavy rains! The contest was half over when the announcer took to the stage and spoke of the MR. and MS. Community Service Awards for 2015. The first ever given in Florida. They began with the Ms and clap clap clap. Then the guy begins to read a biography. For the first few sentences I didn’t pay much mind to it but he kept going and it sounded like me. I looked over at the judges who were nodding their heads and smiling and looked back at Rene who smiled. IT WAS ME they were talking about!! Well when he finished reading from his phone, the crowd got up and gave me a standing ovation; something I have NEVER experienced before. I was numb that walking up to the stage I felt like I was having a out of body experience. They kept clapping and standing. I was a bit stunned. I only recall the announcer saying to me that he aspires to be like who I am!!

I never expected any recognition for anything. Service is its own reward and the best compliments I have ever gotten is when a guy would come up to me and say, “you saved my life.” NOTHING is better than that. NOTHING. I am however loving the medallion and I will wear it proudly. It provokes me forward to accomplish more. The front of the medallion is a torch somewhat like what the Statue of Liberty is holding. Its nice to think that I am that light and that I make a difference in others lives. For that I am privileged, honored and grateful.