Good busy: There is plenty to complain about, but here's some good news

Over the past few weeks, we have written about misguided commissioners with attitude problems, "who's on first?" foreign policy in Washington and some issues dealing with health care, education and state policies that make us wonder what is going to happen next.

Whew, we are really quite tired.

So this week, we thought we might try something a little different, especially in light of the fact that we couldn't figure out how to get everything covered this weekend.

That's right -- we are going to remind you that in the midst of all the bad stuff going on in the world and continuing struggles with the economy, there is reason to feel good about something.

Your community.

This weekend, there were so many benefits, events and things to do that we struggled to get to all of them.

And that is a sign of a couple of good things.

First, this is certainly no sleepy little community. Sure, we aren't New York City -- wouldn't want to be, that's not our niche.

But this town has plenty to offer.

There was a chance to enjoy the arts and music this weekend or to take your family to a rally aimed at celebrating faith -- and at creating a community of neighbors bound and determined to support one another.

There was a chance to admire some of Goldsboro's historic homes, not to mention some of its pretty outdoor areas.

How can you beat that?

And if you had a pooch, also known as a furry child, you got to take him or her swimming as well.

And that was just THIS weekend.

Look for everything from a hillbilly-theme obstacle course to more festivals than you can shake a stick at in the coming weeks.

Second, there were plenty of people who got out to help others this weekend.

Motorcycle riders rode to make sure we never forget the men and women who have given all in service to this nation -- or the families they left behind.

Runners and supporters gathered to help a little girl and her family say "thank you" to those who helped them through what has been -- and we hope will stay -- a successful cancer battle.

And Saturday night, a sold-out crowd gathered to sip a little wine, to talk a little literature and to offer their neighbors the chance to learn to read.

And these are just a few of the good works that go on in this community every day.

So while there might be more to offer in other places -- and a snooty attitude from those whose address is inside the beltline -- the heart of North Carolina still remains in communities like these -- like ours.

The world could use a few more places where a neighbor is as likely to be a friend and where a call for help is always heeded.

No wonder we raise more money in this community for Relay for Life than areas many times our size.

We have the right set of priorities -- and that is what makes a community strong. Well, that, of course, and a whole bunch of really good people.

It is back to the news this week, but as we tell you about the latest antics of the Wayne County commission or the next foreign policy faux pas, keep the good news in mind.

Perhaps we don't have it so bad after all.

And maybe, just maybe, there is a whole lot more good stuff to build on than we think.

Published in Editorials on September 14, 2013 11:47 PM