Groveland, FL, City Council Meeting
5 April 2021
Jocelyn Williamson (286 words)

Thank you, Mayor Wilson and council members, for this opportunity to offer an invocation. On behalf of the residents of the city, I thank you and all city employees for the hard work and effort you bring each and every day. Balancing the needs of diverse residents, while being mindful of a budget and managing a response to the past year is a challenge that no one wanted to face.

As we prepare for tonight’s meeting, let us pause and reflect on how far we have come and what we can do for the future. Let us remember the incredible citizens who have come together to support each other during this past year. Let us embrace the hope this represents for the future.

At times, it seems as if everyone is hurrying, and is only engaged with their phones. Right now is the time to put the phones on silent, breathe deep and be in the moment so everyone can focus on the task at hand.

Tonight, the council is making decisions that will guide the growth of the city for generations to come. With that in mind, let us be open to conversation and discussion to make the best decisions. Let us use reason to evaluate the impact of the choices offered. And let us use compassion with each other as we listen and share our opinions.

Finally, may we keep in mind what Mr. Rogers once said: “If you could only sense how important you are to the lives of those you meet; how important you can be to the people you may never even dream of. There is something of yourself that you leave at every meeting with another person.”

Thank you.