Salute to the Unsung Heroes in Springfield

Star Date 08.26.25

Everyone has a story.

The other morning, while taking a sunrise walk outside my tennis team’s VRBO, I came across three neighbors quietly making a big difference. Larry and Barb Thurman, along with Peggy Wise—the president of their neighborhood association—were out picking up trash. Because of their efforts, the streets were spotless.

But their commitment goes far beyond appearances. Peggy shared that their association was preparing to purchase a home for a family who had lost everything in a house fire. When tragedy struck, this group didn’t just send thoughts and prayers—they opened their wallets and their hearts to give that family a fresh start.

As we talked, Barb asked about my reason for being in Springfield. I told her about my tennis team and our tournament. She smiled and admitted she once loved tennis too—until two shoulder surgeries sidelined her. With a grin stretching ear to ear, she added, “Good thing I can play pickleball.” Larry then pointed toward a nearby alley, encouraging me to take a stroll. “You won’t believe the backyards here,” he said with obvious pride for his neighborhood.

What struck me most was their humbleness. They weren’t doing any of this for recognition—just because they care.

Before we parted ways, Peggy asked where she could find my stories. I promised her I would pay tribute to their group once I returned home and the dust of competition settled. Though my team fell one match short of a regional championship—after knocking off some giants from larger cities—I count this story as one of my biggest victories.

So today, I want to say: thank you, Larry, Barb, and Peggy, for welcoming a stranger, for showing me what true community looks like, and for inspiring me to keep striving to be a better version of myself. I hope our paths cross again. And who knows—maybe next time, my team will be celebrating a trip to nationals in your beautiful neighborhood.

Scripture Reflection
“Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” — Philippians 2:4

The quiet acts of love and service I witnessed in Springfield remind me that the greatest victories aren’t always won on the courts or fields of play, but in the everyday choices to care for others.