Working together to make Hot Springs County great

Hot Springs County and its residents are at a crossroads. What is our vision for our community’s future? If someone moves to our area and tries to get plugged into our community, they quickly find out one of our greatest cultural difficulties: division. 

Over the years and generations, factions have formed over offenses, misunderstandings and miscommunications. And at the same time, it is safe to say all of us have had the best of intentions. What is the solution?

We must remember that a house divided against itself will surely fall. Right now we are looking at the potential increased growth in our tourism as more people are finding out about what we offer. Yet, we need new housing, infrastructure, business and increased growth. Our water matters, our fixed-income residents matter and the process matters as well. These are just some of the things important to all of us and yet we have become entrenched in offense and bitterness over them.

Only on the edge of the precipice will we find the will to change. The solution includes, but is not limited to, coming to a place of humility and understanding and finding a way to honor one another. In the movie “The Shawshank Redemption” based on Stephen King’s writings, there is a famous quote, “Get busy living or get busy dying.” What will you do?

Can you believe in a vision of life and prosperity of our community? Or will you be stuck in the past and still stay offended? This is the crossroad we face. It’s up to you. We can’t control another person or force them to change, but we can take care of ourselves. We are responsible for the quality of our souls and how we treat each other.

When we take ownership of our own issues first, then we can better address the important matters of our community. True prosperity begins in our hearts. Forgiveness, reconciliation and having a vision for our future are essential to going forward. Our future is at hand, it is on our doorstep. Will you go and join the adventure or sit back at home as an armchair referee?

One of the best ways to address this call to action is to get involved in public meetings. Get educated on the process and learn how things are done. Another way is to go to someone you’ve had a conflict with and apologize. Make amends and take ownership of the wrong. The relationship is more important than being right.

If these simple, yet challenging, actions happen, then we can work toward growth in Hot Springs County. Then economic prosperity will come. Plans will come together. Building a community of togetherness will occur. Hope will fill our hearts. Will you get busy living or get busy dying?