Hare, Wynn, Newell & Newton - August 2021

Hare, Wynn, Newell & Newton - August 2021

Hare, Wynn, Newell & Newton

August 2021

The Power of Forgiveness

Why It’s the Secret to Healing After an Injury

When you hang onto that anger, it’s poison that only you drink. Think of it this way: The person responsible for your injuries may know they harmed you, and they may feel guilty for it. But the all-consuming anger you feel as a result means nothing to them. They don’t feel that pain, sadness, anger, or resentment. They may feel it about themselves, but they can’t physically or emotionally feel your pain.

The complexity of the law can make the legal system appear sterile or impersonal. From filing motions to negotiating the terms of compensation, many steps involved in the personal injury case process may seem emotionless. But when you break down these cases to the root — why they even exist — there’s an emotional component to the resolution that can be overlooked by the courts. While a judge, a mediator, or jurors are asked to focus on the facts, the truth is that the facts are only one piece of your personal injury claim. Compensation can be life-changing, and properly coping with what happened is necessary. Aug. 1 is International Forgiveness Day, and whether you’re religious or not, forgiveness can play a powerful role in how you heal and cope after an injury. This is a valuable lesson for clients who may be struggling to grapple with the human quality behind their injury. As a Christian, I believe in the power of forgiveness. Jesus says we should forgive those who wrong us “seventy times seven” times, meaning we should infinitely forgive others for the wrongs they commit — intentionally or unintentionally — against us. Because we are forgiven in God’s eyes, I believe it’s our duty to forgive others, letting go of that pain and releasing them from the guilt of their mistake. (Although, they would hopefully never forget the lesson that moment taught them.) However, practically speaking, forgiveness isn’t about the person you grant it to. It’s about you and your well-being. Forgiveness isn’t a right you afford to someone. It’s an opportunity to let go of the pain and bitterness that’s consuming you, likely stemming from a wrong that has happened to you.

Those emotions belong to and only affect you.

Now, I recognize this isn’t easy for every reader or client we serve. Some of you have every right to be mad and upset about what happened to you. (And it’s healthy to feel those emotions, too!) But at some point, you have to forgive. You have to put that cup of poison down and crawl out of the anger, hatred, and depression an injury can force you into. If you’re struggling to do this, try this exercise: Think about all the times you have been forgiven for the bad things you have done. We’ve all done something to hurt another person, and while what you have done may not measure up to what has happened to you, this exercise can add perspective to your experience. Forgiveness isn’t wiping the slate clean. It isn’t giving the person a free pass for the wrongs and sins they committed against you. It’s letting go of the anger about what happened, accepting that humans make mistakes, and choosing instead to focus on your healing and well-being. You deserve to forgive; don’t continue taking the poison.

800-568-5330 • 1 –Don McKenna

Lawyers Helping People—Since 1890

WILL A NIGHT AT THE MOVIES CHANGE FOREVER?

Movie Theaters in Post-Pandemic Times

Out of all the businesses hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, few were affected more than movie theaters. For the past year, as movies have debuted on streaming services rather than in theaters, many industry leaders, critics, and theatergoers alike have raised the alarming question: Did COVID-19 kill the movie theater industry? In short? No. Not by a long shot. Though the past year has left the industry somewhat beleaguered (AMC closed 60 theaters permanently, Cineworld reported losses totaling $2 billion, and the Alamo furloughed more than 5,000 employees). Yet, despite all of this, a night at the movies is here to stay. When a Vox reporter reached out to various moviegoers about whether they would attend theaters once the pandemic ends, many of them said yes because streaming a film in their living room just can’t provide the same experience. Watching a movie in a theater completely immerses one in the experience — you can’t pause the film to watch later or do chores. And you’re in it with the whole theater. Comedies are funnier when you laugh with others. A hero’s triumphs are more spectacular when you cheer them on together. (Who didn’t go nuts when Captain America caught Thor’s hammer in “Avengers: Endgame”?) When you leave the theater, you feel a little closer to the strangers around you, and having been immersed in the movie alongside your friends, you can discuss how you liked the movie on the way home.

Of course, movie theaters will still change as a result of the pandemic. Theaters are working to become more digital, some even moving to eliminate paper tickets and creating options to order concessions before your arrival. More theaters may promote private viewings of movies so people can be more careful about whom they watch movies with. Some theaters are also trying to create more of an “experience” for moviegoers by offering a wider array of food and even comfier seats. However, these changes, especially given the circumstances of the past year, are hardly surprising. The movie theater industry has been evolving for over 100 years, and it certainly won’t stop evolving now.

RETURN TO SCHOOL SUCCESSFULLY 3 TIPS FOR EVERY FAMILY

adding another event to your schedule may seem daunting, it can be a great way to experience new, valuable moments. Plus, the people your student meets could offer new perspectives and greater learning opportunities. Ask for Help There is nothing wrong with admitting you need help, and this is a valuable lesson to teach your children from a young age. If you have a student who struggles in one subject, encourage them to seek tutoring or extra help from a teacher. They could find a mentor, make a new friend, and — perhaps most encouraging — improve their scores and learning abilities in a new subject, just because they asked for help. This will teach children that they can excel in whatever they try, so long as they actually try.

School Is a Job While there are many other valuable components to a child’s life, school should be their biggest priorities. To help your child see the value of school, encourage them to think of it like a career. This can be a powerful tool for high school or college students trying to balance activities, homework, and a social life. School should be a priority from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day, allowing students to segment their time. By 5 p.m., they can transition out of school and focus on other activities, like time with their friends or sports. (Of course, this may need to be modified for each student’s schedule.) Branch Out The connections we make with others help us become better people, learn more about the world, and foster valuable life skills. Encourage your children to make new friends or try new activities this school year. While the thought of

As your children prepare for the classroom, a return to routine could be just the welcome sight your family needs. However, every school year seems to get busier than the last, and it can be difficult to keep your children motivated as they navigate chaotic schedules. This year, help your family prepare with a few back-to-school tips from Don McKenna — who has successfully put three kids through school!

Good luck to all students, teachers, and families this school year!

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SUDOKU

3 Ways to Stay Safe in a Flood We are in the heart of hurricane season, and if the past few years have taught us anything, it’s that preparedness and action plans are key to staying safe and protecting our families and properties. This August, as the summer heat ramps up and tropical storms become a greater threat, consider the ways you can protect yourself in a flood. Protect Yourself

Assess your risk and prepare.

Regions of the country vary in their flood risk. For instance, Las Vegas residents have less to worry about than Miami, Florida, residents. But variations can also exist within counties and depend on your distance away from bodies of water. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has created a flood map that allows you to input your address and assess your risk. Before you prepare, enter your address into the website at MSC.FEMA.gov. Once you know your threat level, prepare a few basic flood emergency techniques. Plan for evacuation routes — you need multiple — and create an emergency pack. (Note: This is great to have in the event of a power outage, too!) Your kit should include flashlights, extra chargers and batteries, dry clothes, maps, nonperishable food, and water.

Solution on Page 4

Inspired by NutmegNanny.com

Easy Foil-Grilled Sausage and Vegetables

Listen to calls for evacuation.

Ingredients

Don’t ignore the experts! While only you can decide what’s best for your family and home, Mother Nature is no joke. According to Ready.gov, it takes just six inches of water to knock you down and only one foot to sweep a car away. You can’t contend with that, no matter how strong you think you or your home are. Evacuate when you are told to do so to be better safe than sorry.

• 2 cloves garlic, grated • 1 tbsp thyme • 1 tsp oregano • 1 tsp basil • 1 tsp salt • 1 tsp crushed red pepper (optional)

• 4 sausage links of your choice • 1 lb green beans • 1 red bell pepper, diced • 1 yellow bell pepper, diced • 1 red onion, diced • 1 zucchini, diced • 1 yellow summer squash, diced • 3 tbsp olive oil

Practice common sense in high water.

If you do find yourself in a flood, there are a few ways you can protect yourself. For starters, avoid swimming or walking through flood waters, which could carry dangerous debris. Turn around or seek higher ground. Stay away from bridges, which can get washed away, and once you are on higher ground, signal for help. If possible, call emergency services for assistance.

Directions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat or your oven to 425 F. 2. In a large bowl, add all of the ingredients and mix well. Divide into four equal portions. 3. Prepare four 16-inch pieces of foil and place a portion in the middle of each section. Wrap each foil piece tightly and avoid holes. 4. Grill each foil packet for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. You can also bake each packet for 20 minutes at 425 F.

You can learn more about flood preparedness and protecting your family at Ready.gov.

800-568-5330 • 3

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Inside

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Forgiveness Is Needed to Heal

Will a Night at the Movies Change Forever? 3 Back-to-School Tips for the Whole Family Easy Foil-Grilled Sausage and Vegetables 3 Flood Preparedness Tips You Need to Know

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Meet Odin, the Fireproof Dog

Meet Odin, the Fireproof Dog

This Great Pyrenees Guided His Goats Through a Wildfire

Both Hendels were sure they were seeing their dog for the last time. Their hearts sank even further when they heard their home had burned down completely. But on a trip back to examine the ashes, something amazing happened.

In October 2017, California was in flames. One of those blazes was the Tubbs Fire, which charred its way through 36,800 miles of forests and vineyards in both Napa and Sonoma County.

More than 5,600 buildings were destroyed, and 22 people were killed. But when the flames finally died, a four-legged hero emerged from the ashes: Odin, the Great Pyrenees dog. Odin belonged to Ariel and Roland Hendel, two farmers in Sonoma County. When the Tubbs Fire threatened to char their home, they packed up as many of their animals and precious items as they could. Unfortunately, their flock of goats wouldn’t fit in the getaway vehicle — and their goat-herding dog, Odin, refused to abandon them. Great Pyrenees are prized livestock guardian dogs that will do anything to protect their charges, and Odin lived up to his breed.

“In the distance, I saw Odin’s tail,” Roland told ABC. “Sure enough, there was Odin coming at the head of all his goats.” Not only did Odin survive the fire and run right up to the Hendels for belly rubs, but he also kept every single one of his goats safe! A few wild deer even joined the goats, and he shepherded them through unscathed. The incredible story made the news, and Odin became a local legend.

Unfortunately, even legends don’t live forever. This April, Odin passed away after a long life of tail-wagging, treat-eating,

and goat-saving. In his honor, Great Pyrenees Rescue of Missouri gifted the Hendels two new Great Pyrenees pups: Buddy and Snowflake. They’re following in Odin’s pawsteps, protecting the goats he loved so much.

“I said, ‘Okay, Odin, take care of the goats. You’ll be fine,’” Roland Hendel told ABC News.

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