Opinion

Open letter from Ben McKay

By , Published: April 19, 2012

Open letter to the Citizens of Henderson County

 By Ben McKay

Many of you have expressed your concern to me about my termination from the Sheriff's Office. Your prayers and encouragement have helped me face this challenge. I want to thank you for supporting me in this way.

Over the last twenty three years, I have served under Sheriffs Jackson, Erwin, Watkins and Davis. These men were gracious enough to allow me to represent them as a deputy sheriff. Sheriff McDonald chose not to. I know this decision to be final so as I move forward toward my next challenge, I would appreciate your thoughts and prayers. I am asking God for wisdom and strength, I don't know where He is leading me but I am willing to wait on Him.

I have been incredibly blessed by the relationships that I have developed with so many of you. You, the citizens of Henderson County have invested in me through countless hours of training and education. I have come alongside some of you in difficult situations and others of you have helped me through personal challenges as well. Your support over the last few months is a continuation of those efforts. I am humbled by the outpouring of love.

My roots run deep in Henderson County – all the way back to my great, great grandfather who bought Rock Hill in 1900, renamed it Connemara and lived there for many years. Henderson County is in my heart and this termination will not change that.

Many have asked me how you can help. My simple answer is - pray daily for the fine men and women who put their lives on the line to protect our awesome county. Pray also for those who put their lives on the line to protect our country. Then go out and invest in Henderson County by volunteering. Volunteer with your favorite organization. Attend a church this weekend and get connected with others. Donate blood. Give of yourself and develop new relationships. Make 2012 the year that you learn, or relearn, the blessing of service to others. As you do these things you will continue to make Henderson County the great community that we all love.