My Hometown

Several years ago I used to think that there was an “over the rainbow” out of small town USA but I was granted a new appreciation as I got a bit older. There’s that small town stereotype that has White House in a chokehold. Not to mention that we’re in the south, which only reinforces that stereotype.
I use Facebook to chat with far away family, annoy some of my good friends and share my daily posts from around the blogosphere but it's hard not to log in and get a bit frustrated. I’m frustrated because people who should be at the heart of the potential of White House are adding to the preconceived notions with their pessimistic and disapproving remarks.
I’ve been very blessed with parents that value culture. Throughout my still-short life, I’ve been privileged enough to see a lot of places across the country and overseas. And throughout those experiences, I’ve learned that the cliché, “There’s no place like home,” is my reality because in this world it doesn't get much better than a reliable place to live. Unfortunately, I’ve been seeing many from the White House community complaining about the city. I wonder if they know how lucky they are.
There are so many people around the world, country, state… that would love and appreciate the opportunity to live here. There are so many people who aren’t fortunate enough to see friendly faces everyday or have a safe place to sleep at night.
And if you’re complaining about the people here…
News Flash: There are ignorant people and immature people everywhere. That’s life. Change the small-town stereotype by educating yourself before you add to the overall perception by venting rude, petty frustrations on the Internet. Seriously, think about the message you’re sending out every time you make those comments because they can’t be taken back. If you’re giving out negative energy, I wouldn’t expect something better in return.
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I challenge you to value your home, wherever that may be.
It just so happens I’m from a place that values something as simple as high school football and homecoming parades. And I appreciate the fact that something as simple as high school football can bring an entire community together.
I appreciate driving home at night realizing there isn't anyone on the roads because the whole town is at home already. Safe. That doesn’t mean that tragedies don't happen here and won’t happen again. But look at the statistics, we’re safe. That’s not “small town.” It just means we’re around people who enjoy the little things in life.
And those little things we take for granted everyday, are what so many people would love to experience. There are far more pressing matters to discuss and be disgusted about in this world than the fact that you run into someone you know every time you go to Wal-Mart. Or the fact that we have a Wal-Mart is still a pretty big deal to everyone.
Enjoy the little things and appreciate your privileges, remember not everybody gets them.