Dear editor:
In the past year, I have witnessed something amazing happening at Greenbriar Apartments. Here the loyalty of the tenants does not lie with a group defined by race or religion as the world around us seems so intent on making it. Here, the loyalty lies with a single woman, who despite her past pain, despite her trials, has made these humble apartments, homes.
She has children a place to play that is safe from the dangers of the street. Given housing to those without, even given food from her own cabinets. She has opened her heart to these people and in return they have opened theirs. I have seen her fight and struggle so that the people here may sleep under there roofs with no worries, I have seen her struggle against odds that seemed impossible with a team that is ready and willing at any moment to take on any problem. Then late at night, when all is dark and families sleep, I have seen her go against men and women alike so that they may stay that way.
Turning a crumbling castle into a proud palace is a stressful job. It is hard and calls for an iron fist at time, but it is her talent to turn that same fist into an open palm that willingly offers a warmth that is severely lacking in this world today.
The people here have called her by many names, but never has it been unfair. She has listened to the problems of both young and old, solved the issues, both petty and dangerous. It is because of her that the 60-plus households that make up our little community know that all is well. They know they never have to go cold in the winter or worry of the danger of the summer heat.
When the idea of a playground for the children as a way to try to keep little ones from the constant coming and goings of the drive came up, she sought the help of Walmart for safe equipment so that mothers and fathers wouldn't have to fear there sons and daughters meeting there end by a too-fast car. Then when even that was not enough, she did not give an inch. She asked her tenants and they responded. They scraped the money together and soon their goal was met. The park stands. It is proof that we are ever moving forward.
I write this as someone who has seen a new hope for people in this world threw a single woman. There are still people out there that fight for others and one such person is here, her name is Angela Courteaux.
Thank you for listening, an old soul with new hope.
Heather Najera
Greenbriar Apartments
Editorial on 11/26/2017