I’m writing this letter in response to Jack Ryan’s column on Saturday, June 8 “Don’t overlook the good stuff.”
For starters, I was born and raised in New Orleans. My father was born in Liberty and my mother in McComb. They moved to New Orleans before I was born.
I moved to Mississippi in the early 1980s. People would always ask me, “You’re moving to Mississippi?” like it was a crime. I would tell them I believe that out of my six brothers and sisters, I was the only one with my parents’ country blood in me. I married a couple of years later. Our two children graduated from South Pike High School.
I’m 65 years old now and our children have families of their own. My husband and I now live in Summit. I’ve lived here long enough, as you have, to see all the changes and challenges.
I agree with you that all the good stuff is too often overlooked. There are still people who genuinely care and love community. I am one of them. Small gestures do go a long way. Even saying, “Good morning” brings a smile to someone’s face.
Job opportunities are available because of new businesses. You pointed out Chick-fil-A and Starbucks, but also Aldi and the new sports complex on Delaware Avenue. The mall is rebounding beautifully.
I share with my husband all the time that the negative gets too much attention. I understand, as you pointed out, that like most of America, we have challenges.
I taught our two children, and still do, to find something positive in the negative, no matter how small. Now I pass that same message on to our grandchildren. Change what you can and pray for or about what you can’t change. Actions sometimes speak louder than words.
In your column, twice you said, “we ought to.” This shows that you are part of the “we.” You didn’t exclude yourself. “We” is a small word, yet powerful. It can and should bring togetherness.
I want you to know, Mr. Ryan, that you and the person you had a conversation with are not the only ones who see good things going on. Count me in! All is not lost!
— Cynthia McGhee, Summit
