Editor’s Column… So much potential for good things

Last weekend my husband and I and moved into an antique house in Meeker. I’ve always wanted to live in an old house, and this one qualifies. It was built in 1912, and I’m itching to dig into public and historical records and find out about its history. That said, it comes with quirks. Like the fact the kitchen and bathroom floors are seriously tilted in opposing directions. It’s like living aboard an old-fashioned sailing ship in a storm. But that’s OK. The house has character and tremendous potential. As my husband said, “the defects are like wrinkles, you can see where life has been lived.” Seeing potential—whether in a person, a house, or a project—is a blessing and a curse. You can find hidden treasure, or you can be drained by the needs facing you. That’s true for us as individuals and for our communities. I sat in on a meeting Monday for the Main Street America program in Meeker and was struck anew by how much potential is in our county. I won’t say “growth” or “progress” because those are scary words for some. I will say “potential.” Potential is defined as “the latent qualities or abilities that may be developed and lead to future success or usefulness.” Potential is what you see when you look at your kids and grandkids and great-grandkids. Potential translates into hope for the future. The Meeker Classic and The TANK are just two examples of what can happen when just a few folks get together and see potential in an idea, a project, or a place. I’m excited to see what comes from the plans and ideas and projects our communities are pursuing, and I encourage everyone to find a place to set their hand to the proverbial plow and get involved. It’s worth the time and effort to be proactive and positive.