How Living in a Small, Rural Community Has Made Me More Thankful

I need to confess. I’ve had vivid fantasies of throwing a lit match onto a trail of gasoline as I speed out of my small town in my Civic and Alex Clare’s Too Close plays on the radio. Some days, leaving my town in a blaze of glory sounds so appealing. But as I was spackling up the nail holes in my apartment walls this weekend, I realized this place has taught me more than I could have ever imagined.

I hate to admit it, but the most valuable lesson my small, rural community has taught me is thankfulness. I took so many things for granted living in big(ger) city.

I risk sounding like a spoiled brat when I say this but, I’ve missed my little conveniences. A trip to Starbucks, a late-night run to the grocery store, more than one place to eat, a real bar!

I will be incredibly thankful to have my little conveniences back. But even more than those little things, I’ve become more thankful for big things too.

I’m thankful I have a loving husband.
I’m thankful I have an education.
I’m thankful I am literate.
I’m thankful I have supportive family.
I’m thankful I have a home.

I know I didn’t move to a third world country, but I took for granted so many things before moving to this small, rural community. I serve students and community members every day that have none of the “big things” I possess.

Thank you, little town, for teaching me to be more thankful. I won’t forget you.

love,
melanie

3 thoughts on “How Living in a Small, Rural Community Has Made Me More Thankful”

  1. chrissy50

    That is so beautiful. I often wish I lived in a small community. You know, the kind of place where everyone knows your name, and – just maybe, more of your business than they should. 😉 And I am thankful I am literate too. I don’t know what I would do if I couldn’t read. It has taken me out of sadness, frustration, pain . . . and to places I would never be able to go in real life.
    Thank you, thank you, thank you. Peace. xx
    -Chris

    1. lovelibrarianmelanie

      Chris, thanks for your comment! I enjoy often seeing people I know, but sometimes I just want to go to the grocery store in my pjs and not see half the town!

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