Last year, just after the Hamas led attacks in Israel, I began to work for IronRock Security. My employer placed me at the Lakewood Cheder School. I remember my supervisor Kristen’s last words to me, “I want you to be visible.” Those words were music to my ears because I’ve spent most of my adult life working outdoors – first as a police officer and then as an armed security guard in various diverse locations throughout the State once I retired. On my first day, I discovered our school was the largest boys school in the USA. A pretty daunting task was at hand, in an environment I was not accustomed to. It wasn’t long for me to discover how quickly I would fall in love with this community.

Every day, I interact with hundreds of Rabbis, administration, staff members, parents, students and visitors at our massive school. My daily interactions with parents and staff members are like no other job I’ve worked. Nowhere else have I received thoughtful and kind words of appreciation, as well as countless goodies on a daily basis. I’m flattered by this much attention and I’m addicted to their kindness. Up to this point, I was having the time of my life. Then one day, Kristen reached out to me and asked me if I would work a Purim event at a private residence. Of course, I would work this event.

Solomon, a colleague, said it would be a day filled with many community members enjoying themselves on a festive day. He did say just about everyone would be drinking alcoholic beverages, some of which might be having too many cocktails. I know from past experiences in my professional life, too much booze sometimes leads to “beer muscles” and eventually someone would get out of hand and would require intervention from the police. So I did have some concerns that day. I adjusted equipment in my duty gear to reflect what I would encounter throughout my shift and headed deep into Lakewood.

As I attempted to put on my gear, I noticed groups of young men walking towards me. Some carried bottles of wine and liquor and others pushed large bluetooth speakers with blaring music. It was a festive atmosphere. Everyone was singing or dancing to the music. Countless young men approached me and either hugged me or shook my hand. Others took pictures of me. I proceeded to my job location and met with the homeowners. We exchanged pleasantries and I informed them I was there to protect and serve them.

As the day proceeded, I still had concerns because I knew the effects of alcohol would soon be taking its toll. Those concerns never materialized. I was pleasantly surprised to learn the madness which occurred on a daily basis in my law enforcement career does not occur here. I should have known this because my large family at the Lakewood Cheder School demonstrates this to me every day. There is no ill will here. Everyone is caring for each other. Working within the Jewish community has been the most gratifying experience in my professional life which spans many decades. They’ve adopted me as their own son. In turn, I vow to protect every community member as if they were my own son or daughter.

Leaving Lakewood that Purim evening, Solomon texted, “U ok?” I responded, “You were 110% right. Boys will be boys. They were rowdy but they were very polite.” Solomon replied, “Politely rowdy, that’s awesome.” Solomon, yes my day was awesome. Everyday I work in the Jewish community is awesome!

Louis Cuevas Point Pleasant, NJ

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