A Bubble Off Plumb

Want to be amazed, humbled and put in your place in one simple step? Talk to your neighbor.

Maybe not literally, but just look around at the people here in town. For instance, the fellas over at Love’s No. #1. Someone came in to rob the joint and these two men, Cantrell Easley and Delbert Hail, said basically, ‘No thanks,’ and literally tossed the miscreant out the door.

Look at Kristi Hock, who is a real estate manager for Mercy Clinic. In spite of being under pressure to make sure the clinic had a place to practice medicine and see patients in Watonga, she never lost her cool with the city council. Her points were always clearly made and her questions concise and to the heart of the matter, not off in the weeds.

When she took to social media, it was to thank the council for working on her problem and to support its forced increase in utility rates. Again, clear and to the point, with very good supporting statements. No name calling or ugly accusations.

Then there is Kayla Ragsdale. She stepped up and took the open Ward #2 seat on city council. She didn’t have to. I’m sure she has plenty on her plate already. But after careful consideration, there she was, hand raised, taking the oath of office. Probably scared but doing it anyway.

There is a common thread among these individuals. Each one of them took a step back – even if only for a split second with a gun pointed at them – and made the decision to do what it takes to make Watonga the kind of place we want to live.

We all do something of the sort as we go about our daily lives. We drive at the speed limit and stop at the stop signs. We pay our bills on time and do our jobs properly.

These folks, though, really put their personal feelings aside, their own needs in the backseat, and went to bat for the town. That’s a great example to set and we need more of that if the town is to grow and flourish.

So next time you are feeling sorry for yourself, mad at the situation or circumstances, take a deep breath and consider what is the best route to take that will benefit everyone around you, not just yourself.

Stay calm and toss the bad out the door. Find a happy medium and compromise. Stand in and do more than is expected of you for the good of the many.

We will all be better for it, as people and as a community.