Shooting from the lip

little sister’s bedroom in 2014. A night of terror.

As our neighbourhood watch, “The Minutemen”, said: our security had been breached.

We had lots to assess. Like access points, fences, alarms. But we began with our core: the strength of our team.

Life’s full of challenges. Some we must tackle alone. But community safety is a team sport.

We reminded ourselves of some great quotes:

“Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships.” – Michael Jordan.

“Teamwork… the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results.” – Andrew Carnegie.

“Remember, teamwork begins by building trust. And the only way to do that is to overcome our need for invulnerability.” – Patrick Lencioni.

“I invite everyone to choose forgiveness rather than division, teamwork over personal ambition.” – Jean-Francois Cope.

“None of us is as smart as all of us.” – Ken Blanchard.

“Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success. If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself.” – Henry Ford.

“To me, teamwork is the beauty of our sport… acting as one. You become selfless.” – Mike Krzyzewski.

“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” – proverb.

“It’s amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit.” – Harry S Truman.

With those words, we’re ready to address this new threat: an active burglar in our ’hood.

We’re checking our “team list”. Making sure every crucial player’s on board, with their special skill. Our “Neighbourhood Safety Team”. A few more quotes: “I can do things you cannot. You can do things I cannot. Together we can do great things.” – Mother Teresa.

“Teamwork makes the dream work.” – Anon. Our dream of being safe, together. On every street. Ready, teams? (RIP to the elderly couple murdered on Saturday. Strength to that neighbourhood team.)