A time to be proud of your community
Opinion
Posted By Greg Vandermeulen
Posted 1 month ago
Pride isn't always a popular word in southern Manitoba. Too often we think of negative connotations associated with that word such as egos and arrogance.
But pride can also be something positive. That kind of pride was on display in two communities this weekend, and one last weekend.
Both the Manitoba Sunflower Festival in Altona and the Manitoba Stampede and Exhibition in Morris were underway last weekend.
The weekend before saw the small town of Gretna host their annual Hot Spot Festival.
All three of those community celebrations host some very different events.
In Morris, Manitoba's only pro rodeo is on display. In Altona, the sunflower is the theme of the festival, although it has become a celebration of much more, including Mennonite culture, art, and heritage.
Gretna has unique events that feature a community feel.
But it's amazing the pride that's on display. For the first time since the grass began to grow, people seemed to have mowed their lawns at the same time. People mingle as they celebrate their communities.
It's as if they are looking at their town for the first time in a long time, through the eyes of a visitor.
There are two types of people in all those communities. There are those who embrace the opportunity to celebrate an annual milestone with their neighbours, and there are those who for whatever reasons, pack up the camper and leave town to avoid those very things.
It's the people that stay that show the caliber of the community.
It's those that have their sleeves rolled up and are taking part in organization or running some part of the event that really deserve the celebration they are giving to others.
Take time to check out your local festivals.
Take a moment and look around, and note the volunteers busy at work. Take the time to say thank you to them for their efforts.
Most of their work is done out of the limelight and does not get noticed. Many of the volunteers have been quietly meeting and planning for months, to ensure their responsibilities are met.
Of course it's the entire population of a town that makes up a community.
But it's the people who go out of their way to help who make it the type of community you want to live, the type of community that draws others.
And yes, we can be proud of that.
