For the first 29 years of my life, I was a military brat. I lived all over the world, and saw some of the most amazing places that most could only dream about seeing, and it was awesome... but I can also tell you, at times, it was very lonely to never have "that place you call home..." that is, until we moved to Lebanon, Ohio.
On this day, as I have many days, I wonder if the people I so fondly refer to as the "Lebonites" (those born and raised for generations here), really have any idea of the treasure they have in that legacy. I also wonder do they recognize the incredible value in keeping this town alive for future generations to be so blessed. As I read comments about a new bond levy, and pros and cons about should we or shouldn't we, I feel the need to just share my light of this situation as a Lebonite wannabe.
Fourteen years ago, my husband and I moved here with our then two year old son. We bought a small home and I started teaching at Dunlavy. I was from "out of town" and that was very apparent quickly to me as a new member of this community. Everyone knew everyone, everyone knew everyones business, and if they didn't they would certainly find out. It was a little bit of a culture shock to say the least. However, what I also quickly learned, was that when you became part of the fold of this town, people were kind and generous and more helpful than I could have ever dreamed. The bottom line is that people cared about one another, about their neighbors, and about their neighbors neighbors, and it was finally somewhere I could call home, finally, I felt so amazingly blessed.
Now fast forward 14 years, 3 children all students in this community, all technically first generation Lebonites, as this is where they have always lived. Although I can't say I hated a military life, I can in the same breath tell you that giving my children the opportunity to grow up in a town like Lebanon, has been one of the greatest gifts I feel we could have ever given them. They are born and raised in this community, this is their home, and they are Warriors... for this I am so thankful! They have a sense of home that I never had growing up, what a treasure this is for them.
As we look at this upcoming bond levy, where the state will pay over 60% of the bill, I can't believe what an amazing opportunity this is for the children of this community. This levy will provide them a safer, healthier, more competitive school district to grow and thrive... and will also keep this community where it needs to be as a solid educational foundation for future children. Whether you are a Lebonite or moved here for the promise you found in this small town, please please please, I am begging you, let this town continue to be the place we all know and love and invest in our schools. There is no greater return than providing this opportunity for our children and the future generations of this town.
