It was about 10 p.m. on Christmas and I was bringing my wife and children and my mother-in-law, Diana Olson, back to Wadena after our Christmas celebration. We had put on about 400 miles that day so I was exhausted and anxious to get back. When we pulled into town, Diana mentioned that Greg Anderson is supposed to have a nice display this year and I knew she wanted to see it. I thought I would humor her and the family and drive by another lit up gingerbread house.
The first sign that this wasn't an average display was when I saw several cars parked rather oddly and just sitting there facing the lights. I figured I had better do the same so I did. I followed the directions to turn my radio to the correct frequency. At that point we sat back and listened and watched one of the most fantastic light shows that any of us had ever seen. We were awestruck by the deep meaning and the grandness of it all. I have nothing to compare it with except that I would say it was of "Disney" quality.
I wasn't prepared to take in a show of that magnitude at that time but I am sure glad we did. What a terrific way to end our Christmas day. I will be sure to send a donation to the food shelf and I will certainly tell others to make it a point to see it next year.
Coming from an outsider's point of view, I would hope the people of Wadena know the quality of community that you live in. After the tornado, I have seen firsthand the resiliency of your community. The Anderson Christmas lights are a metaphor for what Wadena is all about and the type of people that live there. You can be very proud to live in and near Wadena and I look forward to returning frequently.
Joe Huebsch
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