So, I was sitting in Pizza Hut the other day with my mom for lunch when some things came to my attention... everyone knew us. Several people had stopped by our table for a chat with either my mom or with both of us. Everyone was in a good mood and so friendly.
After lunch, I went back to the pharmacy for a little work time... and the realization hit me again there but with a stronger force. All of these patients were coming in and they were all so cheerful and friendly. They would all greet my dad- by first name of course- and then proceed to ask about me and my sister. Then, he'd point out that I'm back and all grown up. He'd joke a little about the fact that I'm not getting out of school fast enough for him. Then, he'd tell whoever it was about Heidi's twins. If they stuck around long enough, he'd show pictures for sure!
This is the environment that I spent the first 17 years of my life in. There are a few things that are funny about my realizations. The first funny thing being the fact that I've forgotten how it feels to live somewhere that everyone knows you. Yes, sure, there are draw backs because of the whole "small town gossip" thing... but I've found that the easiest way to avoid this issue is to simply not do anything that people would have a reason to talk about... unless of course it is a good thing! ;-)
The second funny thing is that really is no place like home. For example, when we would go out to eat in Jonesboro, even after living there for 4 years myself, and Eddie his whole life, there was still the likelyhood that we could go the whole meal with out seeing a single person that knew us. It did happen on occasion though.
Also, in Searcy, no one knows us! Imagine being a tourist in a town you live in. That's kind of how it feels here. Searcy is small too. I mean people notice new people here and they tend to stare if they can't figure out who you are.
Let me just tell you a little difference in working at my dad's small town pharmacy verses the chain experience that I've had in Jonesboro. Put simply, in the chain pharmacy, people hate us! We're obviously the enemy in any problem that they have in their life or health care system. Maybe not the enemy, but the most accessible outlet for their frustration. I think this is because they think that if they show their behind, most likely I won't be the one to wait on them next time, or if I am that I'll forget. But no, I will most likely wait on you next time because you come in at the same time and I just happen to always have that shift... oh and I WILL remember!
One of my favorite differences is knowing who you know in Sharp County. I know that's probably not an advantage to everyone, but I think it's pretty darn cool to go get my oil changed and bill it to my dad or to have a restaurant make something special for me that's not on the menu (i.e. my grilled turkey and cheese and Cajun fries) because we've eaten there about 10 times a week for the last 10 years of my life.
It's pretty cool to deal with traffic in Sharp County too. I mean, if traffic is bad- by the smallest chance- people are nice and let you out and take their turns at stop signs. I will say that people in Jonesboro generally do that too. In Searcy, no one will let you out. People will run you over when you are walking in and out of Wal-Mart. Don't get me started on the Searcy Wal-Mart experience.
In small town life, there just isn't that kind of hostility in everyday life. And can I just say... it's simply wonderful. I realize I'm partial to my hometown (that I so didn't appreciate enough when I lived there) and that people that are from Searcy would probably say the same things about their hometown... but I'm actually to the point of excitement about moving back. This summer, going back and working at the pharmacy, has been a good experience and has given me a renewal on my determination to get this school thing done. It'll be cool to go put my Highland Rebels t-shirt on and go cheer on Eddie and his team, hopefully that he gets a job at Highland anyway... but I guess we will see! :-)
These are strictly some thoughts that I have about my own experiences. In no way do I want to offend anyone. I'm simply saying that I miss home. :-)
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