I have lots of conversations at the soda fountain these days.
It never ceases to amaze me how many random folks have ties to our obscure little town.
They share their stories and I nod in recognition when they mention local names or landmarks.
Wyoming is like a giant small town.
I can’t help but notice a recurring theme in the stories of those with ties to our community.
They usually start with phrases like:
Years ago, when I lived here…
It used to be this way…
Before I left…
And when that happens, I can’t help but feel a touch of melancholy.
Because while I enjoy the stories of people who once lived here, they don’t move me like the stories of the ones who stayed.
Sure, life happens. I realize not everyone can stay in their place of origin. Circumstances change, opportunities call, and people move on. I get it.
But I have an abiding admiration for those who’ve dug in.
And I love the stories of the Stayers more than anything.
The people who are tied to the past but remain firmly planted in the present.
The people who are still here, doing the work, investing in their communities, and building the future.
That’s something special.
In today’s transient world, moving is easy. The call to pull up roots and head to the next big thing can be seductive. Don’t get me wrong– there’s a time and place for that.
But there are other times where the answer is “Dig. Cultivate. Commit. Stick around for the long haul.”
How do you know which is the right one for you?
I can’t tell you that. But you’ll know when the time comes– as long as you listen to your gut.
I suppose that’s a topic for another post…
But for today. I celebrate the Stayers:
The ones who’ve committed to their unconventional communities against all odds.
The ones who refused to be seduced by greener grass, brighter lights, and the promise of an easier life.
The ones who clung to their land and legacy, despite the wind, blizzards, and barrenness of this treeless prairie.
The ones who cast visions and bring them to life.
The ones who DO instead of talk.
The ones who willingly shoulder responsbility.
The ones who’ve rejected the promises of an easier life and chose the harder path on purpose.
The ones who’ve found purchase in this ocean of grass and decided it wasn’t greener elsewhere.
You’re my people. Thank you for being here.
Continuing to Dig In,
-Jill
This post beautifully honors those who have chosen to stay and invest in their communities, embracing the challenges and rewards of building a lasting legacy. The emphasis on commitment and resilience resonates deeply, reminding us of the profound impact of staying rooted and contributing to the growth and strength of our surroundings. Thank you for celebrating the ‘Stayers’ and inspiring us to consider the value of our own commitments.