Thirteen Years

It was today, 13-years ago I walked into the Police Department and it was my first day as a Dispatcher. It seems like it was just yesterday. I remember feeling so nervous. I had no idea what I was doing and was not comfortable with the idea of being the lifeline for these 100 Officers and Detectives that were on the road. I’m still embarrassed by the fact that with my mere two weeks of training I dispatched an Officer to a dead mole on the side of the road.

13-years ago I was 22.

13-years ago I had a one year old son.

13-years ago I was getting ready to marry my now husband.

13-years ago I finishing up the last few credits for my Bachelors degree.

13-years ago I had no idea I would be expecting our daughter two years later.

I barely remember the person I was 13-years ago. If I were to meet that person today, I’m not sure I would recognize her.

13-years later I am the one that most people go to for help.

13-years later I am trusted and respected.

13-years later I consider all of those Officers and Detectives my family and I refuse to let anything happen to them if I can help it. They are my priority.

13-years later I am so much more comfortable than I ever thought I would be.

13-years later I am the one doing the training.

13-years later I will be the first one to tell anyone who listens how hard this job is. If you are looking for thank yous – this is not the job for you.

13-years later I am still surprised by some of the phone calls.

I am 35 years old, I have been married for 13 years and will probably not recognize myself 13-years from now with 26 years on the job and a 27 year old son and a 24 year old daughter.

13-years later I never expected to still be here.

JS.