Livin’ in a Small Town
One thing that I love about small towns is a dirt road and now we live at the corner of one.
An oldie but goody song blasted from our car radio the other day…John Cougar Mellencamp’s Small Town. I vaguely remember hearing this hit in the 80’s, having no emotions tied with it. Yet hearing it over thirty years later, it inspired me to reflect on life in a small town.
Growing up in a small town, I had the traveling itch to get out! I couldn’t wait to venture south of Franconia Notch to Boston ,where no one knew my name or story. That desire seems a commonality, the dream is to see much more and live in a bustling ,busy, exciting city. Teenagers and young graduates can’t wait to leave the quiet predictable small community and explore what the world has to offer.
Now, it has come full circle….as a young woman I recollect how everyone knew what was happening in my life and they seemed to know more about my doings then I did! Growing up and being a teenager enveloped within a small town was boring and an embarrassment! Yet, it’s funny how the older I become, the more close and dear a small town is to my heart. It doesn’t really change but we do! I’ve evolved while an acceptance was born. That small town acceptance grew with maturity and ripened like grapes into a fine wine. The very things that disgusted and embarrassed me at a young age are the tried and true reasons I stayed in a small town!
The repeating problem is that once teenagers break free from the chains of a small community, many times they find out it’s not what they expected. At first I was excited beyond belief to live in such a busy and well known city like Boston. After time spent away, I realized that the big city lacked community ties, old dirt roads, unlocked doors, family and friends. I missed it all…realizing that my small town was enough, for everything and everyone I loved was there.That sense of belonging is something special, a part of a community.
My husband and I raised our sons in a small town with parents dedicated to raising wonderful human beings. Everyone knows our name and our business, but it’s okay. Livin’, Lovin’, and Stayin’ here was the best parenting option.Unlike many people who move constantly or switch towns or cities like ice cream flavors, our commitment was to create stability and establish strong roots. We wanted them to grow and love this place we call home. We taught our sons to value small towns and the people who live and love here.
Taken from thingsIloveaboutthesouth.com
You will find closely knit families and friends thriving in a little community, helping each other when sickness strikes or laughing together at their kids sporting events. My mother in law, Theo and I used to love going to D’s baseball games. It was fun watching the boys play and was a time to visit with friends at the small town games!
As I write this, my gratefulness is overwhelming…
for this small town has provided
my family and I peace and stability!
As we have already raised our children and they seek their place in the world…I hold grand hopes for the future of my unborn grandchildren. Possibly livin’ in a small town.
This is written in a small town that I call HOME!
All My Best,
Heart and Soul