This version emphasizes the relationship between the officer and Priscilla, highlighting their bond despite the difficult circumstances.
“Meet Priscilla, a well-known person in our community. She sits in an old chair under a bridge every day. Her legs are very swollen, and she has a mental illness. She might curse at you, but if you get to know her, you’ll find she’s a kind person. At first, she used to call me a bad name, and I had to ask her to stop.
I check on her often because she has a bad foot infection. The skin is rotting, and bugs are in it. She won’t go to the hospital, even though I’ve called an ambulance and begged her to go. She’s very stubborn.
The other day, I brought her Bactine spray to help her foot. She was afraid it would sting, so I had to spray it for her. I also brought her Hot Cheetos and beef sticks, but she yelled because she wanted pizza. I truly love this woman. She is one of the most amazing people I’ve ever met.
As I was kneeling there cleaning her foot, I thought about helping those who are rejected. The police are often called bad names, but behind the scenes, we get on our knees to help people others would turn away from. These moments are why I love my job. I feel closest to God when I put on my uniform and serve people who just need love. God made me a police officer. Even though some people hate us, my heart is at peace because I know I am doing God’s work, just like the other officers I serve with. This is the part of police work you don’t see. We are human, and we are here to serve and protect.”
By Martha Ruth Lohnes.
