The Power of Community: A Memoir by Josh Shapiro
In his new memoir, 'Where We Keep the Light', Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro shares a deeply personal and poignant account of his lifetime of public service. From the aftermath of an arson attack on his home to the resilience of ordinary Americans, Shapiro's story is a testament to the transformative power of community and compassion.A Moment of Connection
Shapiro recounts a heartwarming encounter with a woman from Salem Baptist Church, who had been praying for him after the arson attack. Her words, 'We will take care of you like you took care of me all those years ago and lifted me up,' resonated deeply with Shapiro, reminding him of the bonds that unite us as Americans. This moment of connection highlights the importance of empathy and kindness in times of need.
The Light Amidst Darkness
Shapiro describes the days following the arson attack as 'heavy and unrelenting', but notes that what we remember most are not the hardships, but the moments of light and hope. He writes, 'We were overwhelmed by the outpouring from people all across this country whose shared humanity, shared sense of decency, shared agreement of what is right and what is wrong...overrides all of that.' This sentiment underscores the idea that even in the darkest times, there is always a glimmer of light to be found.
A Legacy of Inclusion
Shapiro reflects on the legacy of William Penn, who founded Pennsylvania as a place of welcome and inclusivity. He notes that Penn's vision was grounded in free expression, freedom of religion, free elections, and respect for others. Shapiro sees himself as part of this ongoing journey, striving to build a community that is warm and welcoming to all people, regardless of their background or identity.
Josh Shapiro's memoir, 'Where We Keep the Light', is a powerful reminder of the importance of community, compassion, and inclusivity. Through his personal story, he shows us that even in the face of adversity, we can find hope and resilience in the bonds that unite us as Americans. As we navigate our own challenges, Shapiro's message encourages us to look for the light amidst darkness and to strive towards building a more perfect union.
