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There have been several funeral processions that have traveled through town, and there’s always one constant – the Atmore Police Department.

After getting some rest on Sunday, I made my way to the office for a bit of work.

On my way, I noticed that an Atmore patrolman sitting in Alfa Insurance’s parking lot.

Some time later, I went to get some lunch from Walmart, and noticed another patrol car a little ways down the road.

Once I consumed some of my lunch, I heard the familiar chirp of a police siren. I quickly went to the front door and opened it to find a funeral procession heading north on Highway 21.

“Ahh, that’s what they were there for,” I thought.

Now I know that I’ve written something about having respect for those who have passed away before.

As I’ve noticed all too well, the APD makes sure the procession goes through town without a hitch, blocking off traffic when needed. And some patrol officers stand at attention when cars go by, which is a comforting site to see.

Getting back to work on Sunday, a thought came to me and it originated from the Harry Potter novels.

In the books, Prof. Albus Dumbledore gives Harry Potter a much-needed piece of advice near the end of the final book.

He says, “Do not pity the dead, Harry. Pity the living, and, above all those who live without love.”

I smiled and continued my work that afternoon.