4/01/07

Doctor My Eyes

A few years ago, as I traveled the streets of Okinawa, I spotted a Japanese pet shop that featured exotic animals from other areas of the world. In a big galvanized washtub there were about a dozen turtles that I recognized quite well.

Looking up at me was a group of adult Diamondback Terrapins resting at the bottom of the tub. These turtles each have unique color variations on their brightly colored heads. I was not the only inhabitant of Southern Maryland on this busy island.

I attempted to speak with the old Japanese proprietor in my broken Japanese to learn how these creatures from the Chesapeake Bay drainage system could travel half a world away. Immediately, he refused to recognize my presence and turned away. Obviously, there was something in his past, maybe experience in WWII, which would not allow him to speak with an American.

I will always remember that stoic Japanese shopkeeper and the invisible wall that stood between us.

Of the many bills that have been introduced in Annapolis, State Senator Roy Dyson’s effort to protect the Diamondback Turtle population has profound environmental effects to rescue future generations of this quiet Maryland resident. Prohibiting harvest and the export of these creatures will help return their numbers to former levels.

In a County as giving and friendly as ours, we cannot allow past political differences affect our present relationships.

Prior to my second term of office, my optometrist, Dr. Marcel Brooks, decided to run for the County Commissioner seat that I sought. He was such a kind and gentle man so I focused my campaign on positive change and my past public experience rather than any personal references.

After the election, he wanted to serve upon the Community Health Advisory Committee. I was happy to make the motion to approve his appointment.

He has just opened up a new office in Charlotte Hall and I was working to open my schedule for an appointment with him following this ‘08 budget cycle.

This week, I also included a prayer request for his safe return prior to opening the St. Mary’s County Commissioners’ weekly meeting.

The disappearance of Dr. Brooks in Prince Georges County is disturbing to all of us who know him in St. Mary’s County. If he had disappeared here, we would all be traveling the country roads and major highways, searching the woodlands and fields in an effort to find him.

In the DC Metro Area, events like these happen too frequently. That community has lost the ability to care or police their population properly.

Our community continues to care. Let us all pray for the safe return of Dr. Marcel Brooks, an officer and a gentleman.