OUR VIEW: Butch, we are the ones who should say thanks

» Two years after a horrific trench collapse nearly took his life, local resident Butch Mills remains an inspiration to Culpeper.

Butch Mills may want to say “Thanks, Culpeper” — that was Sunday’s front-page headline above his remarkable story — but, really, we should be thanking him.

In addition to his physical healing, Mills certainly has a lot for which to be thankful when it comes to the spiritual side. Countless local residents prayed for his recovery two years ago when he was nearly buried alive at a work site — the pressure was so great that his shoulders were crushed, every rib was broken and three vertebrae were fractured. He was given almost zero chance to survive, let alone make a full recovery.

Through the grace of God and the prayers of many, he not only lived to tell about it, today you’d never know he was on the brink of eternity.

Mills’ journey to health was truly miraculous, and while crediting a higher power with healing his body, he also gives the community a lot of credit for lifting his spirits.

Naturally, you wouldn’t expect a guy like Mills to toot his own horn, but he should give himself a bit of credit too. He has turned into quite an inspiration and positive influence, leading a Bible study at his church and telling of God’s power to mend flesh and soul.

Since his recovery, which was a long and painful process, Mills has become even more of a community leader. He’s taken on a wider role at Culpeper United Methodist and gone to leadership training.

That’s not to say Mills wasn’t a stand-up guy before the trench collapse. After all, he was active at his church and served as a father to well-adjusted, community-minded teenagers. But because he had touched the lives of so many in Culpeper, it helps explain why so many were determined to return the favor.

Mills is living, breathing proof that even the darkest of days can be overcome and the power of prayer and positive thought can make a difference.

Thank you, Butch, for giving us a happy ending.