Having been born and raised in a small town, I know a thing or two about small town values. When a person is raised in a small town, it becomes a part of their character.

I worked alongside my dad, not so much because he needed me to, but because he was teaching me responsibility. We worked on many at home projects together, as well as countless others at the homes of family and friends. He was teaching me independence and the meaning of community at the same time. Small town values are born of hard work, commitment, and determination. A man not only keeps his word, but he is his word. I am proud to be a small town boy, and I am grateful to be raising my children with the same values that were taught to me.

I learned by the example of my father and the examples of all those around me every day. The people were strong, good, and constant. They created value through the struggle. Many had broken dreams from living hard lives that had failed to provide sustenance and security for their families. It was sometimes a never ending cycle of coming home exhausted, body broken, and boots caked in crud. Those that succeeded had resisted numbing the pain with drugs and alcohol. Giving up the fight was never an option, because the fight was sometimes all that they had left. Yet they persevered and maintained a sense of purpose, not only despite every obstacle, but also because of it. They were rich, if it be only in their heritage.

Being inspirational is just a way of life in a small town. Strength is a natural result of regular storms of inflation, depression, and strikes. Corporations move in and close family businesses, leaving empty forgotten buildings in their wake, and skeptics predicting demise. People with love in their eyes, and dedication in their actions, have been resourceful enough to keep their towns alive. They’ve had the courage to face any challenge in their way and to sustain each other through it all.

These are the small but strong communities dotted all across America, prevailing against all odds, creating legacies to rival that of any thriving metropolis. This is the hope and evidence of the American way of life.

“Home is where we tie one end of the thread of life.” -Martin Buxbaum

Personal Challenge: Consider how your upbringing has contributed to your character and decide what to pass on to your own children.