There isn’t much we value more than our time, especially our
limited leisure hours.
There isn’t much we value more than our time, especially our limited leisure hours.
Most of us work long and hard so that the time with our families and friends can be relaxing and enjoyable.
But that’s what more than 60 people gave up Friday and Saturday for more than eight hours each day at the Portuguese Hall in Hollister.
The participants gathered to take part in a two-day workshop to discuss and dissect the San Benito County Slow-Growth Control Initiative issue.
The room was filled with people offering different viewpoints on the emotional topic that will be put to a vote in March 2004.
But the same people were united in one area: They care with conviction about the county that they live in.
They want this to be a great place to live and work, for themselves, their children and future generations.
Everyone came away more educated and understanding of the issue and each other.
The room was filled with smart and strong people being candid and honest. And it was done with courtesy, respect and integrity.
There were even displays of humor at times, surely a sign that some of the tension has eased a bit on the issue that has turned some families and friends against each other.
At the end of the two days, everyone stood and applauded. Then they shook hands with each other and made stirring statements straight from the mind and heart.
We at the Free Lance stand up and applaud everyone who took the time out of their busy lives to gather and make a difference. We especially salute the two main organizers, Joe and Julie Morris.
There is so much work to do to plan a sound and solid road map for the future of San Benito County.
As noted several times, the issue is bigger than a simple tally of votes. It is bigger than bureaucrats and politicians.
But it is not bigger than this group of concerned citizens.
This was a wonderful start, democracy and the American Way at its finest. Those who attended and participated should take a bow.
Those of you who didn’t should plan to attend the next one.
You will be glad that you did.
And so will everyone who lives in and loves San Benito County today and in years to come.
To respond to this editorial or comment on this issue, please send or bring letters to: Editor, Hollister Free Lance, 350 Sixth Street, Hollister, Calif. 95023 or fax to 637-4104 or e-mail to
ed****@fr***********.com
.
