The word reinvent is better than rebuild.
No one will deny that the economic woes of our communities have changed our lives, but will we come out of this, better, happier people?
Different communities have been affected in different ways, but how will they react to challenges, and what will be the results of their actions?
By default, or by choice, we are in this together. Now more than ever, people need to get involved. Will communities take the lessons from this economic disaster, and reinvent their lives and community, rather than simply rebuild what was there before?
Now, is an opportunity to take risks, (I mean what do we have to lose at this point?) and improve the way we approach and consider local government, local businesses, education, quality of life, families and individuals.
Over the past few years, I have crossed paths with many people who have lost their jobs. Some have let it pull them down under, while others have decided to take the opportunity to change careers, or start a business they are passionate about. Many of these people are ‘reinventing’ themselves. Wall street Financial consultants and other professionals hit hard by the economy are now opening bakeries, partnering in local restaurants, and other small businesses, they are now volunteering at local schools and organizations. They are connecting back to their communities, and many are happier, despite a significant cut in pay.
Isn’t the ultimate goal in life, ‘happiness’?
So how do we reinvent and create ‘happy’ communities? A few ideas fly through my mind;
• We need to stop petty fighting, and start honest discussions with our neighbors.
• We need to help our neighbors in need.
• We need to come up with a plan that not only focuses on the financial troubles of today, but addresses a long-term plan for the future.
• We need to find creative ways to continue to support the things that make us happy. This includes supporting our Parks, our Nature & Arts Center, our Library, Historical Society, and other town ‘quality of life’ assets. Public-Private partnerships, and fundraising are a positive way to support these entities, lowering the cost to the town, while maintaining these assets.
• We need to support our local businesses with the same loyalty and generosity they show our community.
• ‘Party Politics’ need to take a backseat to sensible solutions, in order for us to succeed.
Trumbull has shown it can be a leader in regards to creative, forward thinking. The joint purchase of the Pequonnock Valley is proof of that. Our problem is too many good ideas get buried in petty politics, and end up on a dusty shelf.
The Trumbull ‘Brand’ has become exactly that, a town with a lot of passion, potential and good ideas. A town to watch. But, one that sometimes trips over its own feet, because of petty politics.
This could actually be a relatively easy fix, if people open their minds, and listen to each other.
I am not one to just talk the talk, but I will walk the walk.
So, I will start by discussing the topic of the Trumbull Nature & Arts Center, its goals, successes, and reasons why it is important to this community. I will also attempt to dispel the ‘controversy ’ that has surrounded the relocation idea ….in my next blog. Stay tuned!
I also encourage those interested in TNAC, and our elected officials to attend our commission meetings at the TNAC building, the 3rd Tuesday of every month. Our meetings are casual, and often pleasantly 'entertaining' as well. We welcome new ideas, and volunteers.
