Editor’s Note:
This letter is in response to the recent termination of Sharp County Community Service work supervisor Brian Watson by Sharp County Judge Mark Counts. A replacement was hired for Watson within hours of his termination with the reason given as the state is a Right to Work State.
Dear Editor,
I am writing this letter to recognize and acknowledge the hard work, dedication, and compassion that Brian Watson puts into the Sharp County Community Service Program and, more importantly, into the lives of the people he serves.
Mr. Watson has gone above and beyond to help those of us who have been incarcerated become functioning and productive members of our community. He has shown us that our past does not have to determine our future. Through the community service program, he has taught us responsibility, accountability, respect, and the importance of giving back to the community.
Brian has also helped many of us find employment and get back on our feet after getting out of jail. Having someone willing to help guide us through that transition can make a tremendous difference. He has taken the time to listen, offer advice, and point us in the right direction when we needed it most.
What stands out most about Brian is that he treats everyone equally. He doesn’t judge us solely by the mistakes we’ve made or the circumstances that brought us into the program. He treats us with respect and gives us an opportunity to prove that we can do better. He is always willing to help when someone is in need, and he consistently puts the needs of others before his own.
The lessons Brian has taught us go far beyond community service. He has given us things we can carry with us into the next journey of our lives—lessons about hard work, responsibility, respect, perseverance, and being willing to help others.
For many of us, the Sharp County Community Service Program could have simply been a requirement we had to complete. Because of Brian Watson, it has become something much more meaningful. He has helped people see that they can contribute to their community, earn back trust, find employment, and build a better future.
I truly believe that the work Brian does makes a difference, even when he may not realize just how many lives he has impacted. His dedication, patience, and willingness to help others deserve to be recognized and appreciated.
On behalf of those of us who have had the opportunity to be part of the program, thank you, Brian Watson, for everything you do for our community and for the people you serve. Your work has helped give many of us a second chance and the tools to make something better out of our lives.
With sincere appreciation and respect,
Michael Tarvin
