ASSOCIATE Magazine FBINAA Q3-2026

Kevin Jensen A MESSAGE FROM OUR CHAPLAIN

FBINAA.ORG | Q3 2026

Over the Falls - Perspective

A s I reflect on the 2026 FBINAA National Annual Training Conference in Niagara Falls, Canada, I do so with tremen dous gratitude and many fond memories. It was a privilege to reconnect with longtime friends, welcome new members into our FBINAA family, and witness the extraordinary efforts of the many individuals who worked tirelessly to deliver an exceptional conference. Their thoughtful planning also allowed attendees to experience one of the world's most remarkable natural settings. The host hotels were situated almost beside the water, and from many rooms the views were simply breathtaking. As my wife and I have reflected on our time there, two lessons continue to stand out. Both speak to perspective, character, and how we choose to respond to life's circumstances. As I consider these lessons in my own life, I am reminded that I still have much room for growth. Interestingly, both science and Scripture arrive at similar conclusions regarding human nature. Whether through Maslow's observations on human development or King Solomon's writ ings on wisdom and contentment, we are reminded that envy continually seeks a foothold and that lasting fulfillment depends upon the strength of a well-developed character. In its simplest form, human development often begins with self-interest. Yet throughout life we are presented with opportu nities to mature—to grow in wisdom, compassion, humility, and selflessness. At our best, we learn to place the needs of others alongside, and often ahead of, our own. In a culture increasingly influenced by a "me first" mental ity, we are often encouraged to believe that happiness comes from acquiring more—more possessions, more experiences, more recognition. Far less attention is given to how our pur suits affect others or whether our actions reflect the values we profess. Unfortunately, some pursue personal gratification at the expense of individuals and communities, and that reality reminds us why our profession remains so essential. Thankfully, there are many who choose a different path. Guided by enduring values and strengthened through discipline, courage, and self-control, they dedicate themselves to serving and protecting others. Those of us in public safety have been entrusted with tremendous responsibility because we have demonstrated qualities foundational to our profession: integrity, honesty, compassion, sacrifice, justice, humility, and a commit ment to continuous improvement. None of us is perfect, but we continually strive to become better—for our families, our organi zations, and the communities we serve. My wife and I arrived early to participate in National Board meetings and conference preparations. Shortly thereafter, as attendees began arriving from across the country and around the world, a storm swept through the area, causing a prolonged power outage at one of the conference hotels. More than 300 guest rooms suddenly lost electricity during a heat wave, and the outage lasted nearly two days. Those values were on full display in Niagara Falls.

Even the most carefully prepared conference team could not have anticipated a challenge of that magnitude. Yet our outstanding hosts, FBINAA staff, the Eventive team, hotel personnel, volunteers, and countless others responded around the clock. Alternative accommodations were secured whenever possible. Some attendees relocated to other hotels, a few were graciously welcomed into a local home by the hotel owner, and others simply chose to remain in their rooms and patiently endure the inconvenience. What impressed me most was not the disruption itself, but the response of our members. Certainly there was disappointment and fatigue. Those reactions were entirely understandable. Yet the overwhelming majority of those affected demonstrated remarkable patience, grace, understanding, and even humor. Their attitudes made the difficult work of those trying to assist them immeasurably easier and reflected the very character our Association represents. Power was eventually restored, and the conference contin ued with tremendous success. Yet the lasting impression was not how the problem was solved, but how people responded while it remained unsolved. My wife and I were fortunate that our hotel was unaffected, and I found myself asking an important question: Would I have responded with the same grace under those circumstances? I would like to think so. But witnessing the character of so many fellow members challenged me to continue growing in that area myself. Sometimes the greatest lessons we learn at a confer ence are not found in a classroom, but in observing how others conduct themselves when circumstances are less than ideal. The second lesson came each morning as we awakened beside the large picture window in our fourteenth-floor room. Before us stood the magnificent Horseshoe Falls—a breathtaking reminder of both the beauty and power of God's creation.

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