Letter to the Editor: Small Town Values OR Big Time Opportunities for Personal Gain?

Lately, I’ve been feeling a wave of frustration as I step out into my small community. It’s disheartening to experience the cold shoulders and dismissive attitudes from certain business owners and educators who seem to think they’re above it all. It’s as if they’ve forgotten the very essence of what makes our community thrive: the people who live here.

When I walk into a local store (Walmart, Safeway) attend a community event (fair, downtown sounds, etc), and speak with certain persons from our medical field and or judicial system, often I find myself met with indifference rather than the warmth of a friendly greeting/conversation. It’s a stark reminder that some individuals in positions of influence and trust have lost sight of the following fact: without this community, one wouldn’t have customers, members, patients, clients, or students. One would think that those who benefit from our community would treat it with a little more respect and courtesy. After all, it’s the residents who support these businesses and entrust their children to these educators that in turn make it possible for individuals to have businesses or work in their respective fields.

Now please correct me if I’m wrong,

a simple acknowledgment—a smile, a greeting, a nod of the head, or even a moment of genuine connection—can go a long way in fostering a sense of belonging and mutual respect.

It’s time for us to remember that we are all in this together. The success of our local businesses and schools is intertwined with the well-being of our community. When we uplift one another, we create an environment where everyone can thrive. I have a hard time accepting that we do not encourage our local leaders to engage with us, to listen to our needs, and to treat us as valued members of this community, regardless of how they feel about us. Let’s remind those in positions of power ( Or as I like to call it, the opportunity to be a leader, a motivator, and an inspirer) that their success is rooted in the very community they serve. After all, it’s not just about business or education; it’s about building a vibrant, inclusive community where everyone feels valued and respected.

That brings me to my next point; The Importance of Common Courtesy and Respect in Small Towns: A Call to Action for ALL Business Owners and Teachers -

In a small town, where the fabric of the community is woven tightly together, the importance of common courtesy and respect cannot be overstated. As business owners and educators, we hold positions of influence (or power and control as some like to see it) that extend beyond our professional roles; we are community leaders, role models, and, in many ways, the heartbeat of our town. We must acknowledge the significance of our actions and interactions in public spaces, regardless of our personal feelings toward others.

• Setting the Standard

As leaders in our community, we must hold ourselves to a higher standard. Our actions set the tone for how others interact with one another. When we demonstrate courtesy and respect in our daily lives—whether it’s through a warm greeting, a genuine compliment, or simply listening to someone’s concerns—we inspire others to do the same. When we can’t or simply choose not to take the time to do these simple effortless things, well just look around, this is the direct consequence of it, a community divided on many levels. This negative ripple effect can be acknowledged and in turn, transformed to benefit our community positively if we all make the effort.

• The Ripple Effect of Acknowledgment

In a small community, every interaction counts. A simple nod, a warm smile, or a friendly greeting can create a ripple effect that fosters goodwill and strengthens relationships. When we acknowledge others, we send a message that we value our shared humanity, regardless of past disagreements or differing opinions. This small act of kindness can brighten someone’s day and encourage a culture of respect and understanding.

• Leading by Example

As leaders in our respective fields, we have a unique opportunity to set the tone for our community. Our behavior serves as a model for others, especially for the younger generation. When students see their teachers engaging positively with others (in public and outside of the classroom), they learn the importance of respect and courtesy. Similarly, when customers observe business owners treating everyone with kindness (not just during money transactions), it reinforces the idea that our town is a welcoming place for all.

• Navigating Personal Feelings

It’s natural to have personal feelings towards certain individuals, but as community leaders, we must rise above these emotions. Our personal opinions should not dictate our public behavior. Instead, we should strive to treat everyone with the same level of respect we would want for ourselves (and most business owners and educators demand). This doesn’t mean we have to be best friends with everyone, but it does mean we should approach each interaction with positive body language, self-accountability, an understanding that perception is reality, and a willingness to engage.

• Building a Positive Community Culture

Common courtesy and respect are the cornerstones of a positive community culture. When we engage with others in a friendly manner, we help to break down barriers and foster understanding. This is especially important in small towns, where relationships are often intertwined and the impact of our actions can be far-reaching. By prioritizing kindness and respect over power and vindictive behavior we contribute to a culture where everyone feels valued and included resulting in the next generation, that IS watching being given a good foundation for success in the future.

• Respect Knows No Boundaries

Respect is a universal language that transcends socioeconomic status. Whether you’re a business owner, a teacher, working in the medical field, the judicial system, or a community member, everyone deserves to be treated with dignity. When we prioritize respect, we create an environment where individuals feel valued and appreciated, regardless of their financial situation or one’s self-proclaimed sense of entitlement. This inclusivity strengthens our community bonds and encourages collaboration, innovation, and growth.

In closing, I want to emphasize that accountability is not just a concept; it’s a commitment to growth and authenticity. Just as is being humble and remembering that you probably have a past and have slightly asked to be forgiven for it to be successful in the role you are currently playing today. Having lived in Sidney now for 22 years and successfully led and grown a local corporation and now our own agency, I understand the weight of our pasts and the power of resilience. I embrace my journey, knowing that it shapes who I am today. My hope in sharing this content is maybe, just maybe we can “Do Better & Be Better Business Owners, Educators, and overall Human Beings”

Respectfully,

Misty Beutler, Sidney