Alan NeSmith
Mother Nature always reminds us to be careful what we wish for.
Two weeks ago, my wish was for one day without rain. This week, as I tote a watering can around after sunset, I can only dream about a gentle, steady evening drizzle. And Tuesday it was simply too hot for a Habersham County day in mid-September.
Though watering plants can be a chore, it is a great time to collect your thoughts on the day while connecting with nature. Over the years, I’ve worked my mind through many an issue while carrying a green, two-gallon watering can. On Wednesday night, while giving the flowers in our parched zinnia and sunflower patch a much-needed drink, my mind shifted from seeking solutions to just being thankful.
As my mind scrolled through all of the blessings in my life, the frustrations of the day evaporated. Having the privilege to raise our children in a God-fearing community, two active, healthy sons, a loving wife, a challenging career with a loyal team to work with, great friends and an engaged community of people who care about their home all filled my mind.
Walking to refill the watering can, our hound dog, Sparky Bocephus, brushed against my leg for some attention which he readily received. Folks, it just doesn’t get much better than to have a hound dog who really loves you.
Then, as I made my way to water the tomato and pepper patch, my mind shifted to all the leaders in our community. The leaders in our school systems, public safety, able doctors and nurses, local elected officials, the entrepreneurs of local business and industry who are the financial backbone of our community on which everything else relies, our local clergy saving souls and mending lives, the parents leading their households, the non-profits striving daily to patch the holes in our community tapestry.
No, we don’t all always agree. However, we must constantly remember we all have much more in common than it first might appear. And we must always strive for compromise while standing strong for what is just and right.
This is so hard to do in our fractured world. Far too many people feel because they might be offended by another point of view. The other person is wrong and they’re right. Not true. Too many people are walking around with a chip on their shoulder just waiting to be offended.
And guess what, if you are looking to be offended chances are you will find a fit.
Thank you to the leaders of our community. And here’s to the next gentle, steady evening rain.
Alan NeSmith is chairman of Community Newspapers Inc. Reach him at anesmith@TheNortheastGeorgian.com or 706-778-4215.