Thoughts from Chief Sjolander... So, can I have your - TopicsExpress

Thoughts from Chief Sjolander... So, can I have your number... Most of you know I have no problem giving you my phone number. Its on my business cards and Ive posted it numerous times here. Ive had other people tell me how odd that is and how its going to get abused at some point if it has not already. I tell people that being a small town cop is a unique calling and it takes special people to work in public safety, especially in small small towns. We are never off duty in small towns and while I work hard at having a personal life, my family and friends are very understanding about what I do and why I do it. So why do you do that... Many years ago when I was going to college and was on the Austin Mn police reserve. I had a wise officer named Matt tell me how its important to have your number listed in the phone book. This was before cell phones became the norm. Matt told me about a time when a person in need called him at home and needed assistance. Matt had a good relationship with this person and because they were able to contact him in their time of need, he probably saved their life. I never forgot that lesson and Ive always had a published phone number and have given out my cell number as well. Lots of people have my number and while Im not sure if Ive saved any lives, I do know Ive helped a lot of people along they way. Like this morning... My cell phone rang very early this morning. I saw it was one of our local residents who we help out quite a bit with their needs and they needed our help. They went outside and could not get back into their home. Their door was frozen shut and asked if I could help. I went right over and was able to get their door open. They had a coat on, but its 9 below this morning and they could have had a serious problem if they were not able to get a hold of someone. They thanked me and I went home. Its the little things in life that matter, and knowing I was able to help someone in need is way more important than the sleep I lost. Im in the people serving business and they need our assistance 24/7. I do wonder what the person who gets my cell number when I retire will think of this. I hope they have a good sense of humor, are kind, and are ok with calls and texts at all hours. Who knows, they just might save a life:) By the way, my cell number is 507-649-0264. Stay safe, Lee