Our legislative session has been over for three weeks, but my
schedule hasn't slowed down one bit. As so many families continue to piece
together their homes and lives after the devastation of the deadly tornadoes, I
have been busy directing resources and helping in any way possible. Being on the
ground and helping has opened my eyes to so many things and taught me many
lessons. I know the greatness of Oklahomans in a new way now; Neighbor helping
neighbor, friend helping friend, stranger helping stranger. I could not be
prouder of my State. In the face of adversity we have shone through brighter
than before.
We now start to turn our attention to the long term. In my
position as a state elected official I have begun to ask the question, “Where
can I help?” I am a firm believer in limited and effective government but also
understand that from this tragedy may arise needs that can’t be met by the
private sector. Never should a government step in to give a handout, but there
are needs that must be addressed. After coming through this tragedy we are wiser
and more seasoned than before. I have at times, personally seen the struggles
and ineffectiveness of the federal, state, and county government. These issues
must be addressed. Allowing our churches and relief organizations to work to
their full potential is imperative. The difficulties of communication,
leadership, and cooperation have been highlighted throughout this process. These
issues must be addressed. We must find a way for leadership to be established
and be effective so that our relief efforts are pointed, concise, and
effective.
I cannot say enough for our county and municipal leaders as
they have worked through these struggles, built upon their successes, and
learned from mistakes. We should all be proud of them. In the coming weeks and
months we will all be getting together to discuss more effective methods and
even better solutions to lessons we have learned over the past several weeks.
Your input is invaluable to us. Please voice your opinions and thoughts on ways
that efforts can or could have been improved. Hopefully if this happens again
(God forbid), we will be ready and equipped in new and improved ways. If I can
ever be of assistance to you please call my office at: 405-557-7349. You can also follow me on my Facebook:
Representative Josh Cockroft, on Twitter: @VoteCockroft27, and on my Blog:www.RepJoshCockroft.blogspot.com.
