On Friday night, my friend Kitty Callahan was honored as Person of the Year by the Yonkers Police Department. At the 102nd Annual Installation of Officers & Awards Dinner, this recognition typically granted to local politicians or business people was given to a social worker for the very first time.
The evening began with presentations for notable or heroic acts in the line of duty, including the efforts of a detective who had spent four years solving a cold case, and the bravery of several officers who’d been engaged in a full 15-minute shoot out. A young cop who’d been shot in the face during that violent incident was sworn in as a detective by the Mayor—much to her surprise. I felt privileged to witness the sense of community and family within the culture of those who serve in this way.
When the President of the PBA took the podium to give the final award of the evening to Kitty, he held no notes in his hand, nor could he share stories of personal triumph or heroism. A man of significant physical stature, Detective Olson’s humble presence and simple, heartfelt words honored the moment and the woman strong enough to tend those who face dangerous situations. When Kitty began as the department’s Employee Assistance Professional, he said, she was warned that no one was going to talk to her or trust her. Yet since that time, literally hundreds of officers have sought her counsel. Detective Olson offered his sincere gratitude for Kitty’s gift to the Yonkers Police force, for helping keep officers sane in their often-chaotic world.
Kitty received citations from the Mayor, the City Council President and the New York State Assembly for her support of the department through the toughest of times. A beautiful plaque honored her years of commitment and dedication. One line engraved therein most caught my attention, resonating with the words of her presenter: We thank you for all the help you have given to the members of the Yonkers Police Department throughout the years. Your compassion is unparalleled.
There is a level of listening to the grit and grace of life that very few people can do. This kind of deep listening creates a sacred space through knowing that every experience, no matter how painful, has the potential to lift us to a higher place. Yet only as that experience is fully heard and honored can its true gift unfold. Kitty gained the respect and trust of an entire police force without ever having been a cop herself because she is such a listener.
If you are so fortunate as to have someone in your life who truly hears and supports you, you may want to take an opportunity to thank that person. Perhaps they are your Person of the Year.