Wide open fields, small class sizes and cows. That pretty much describes the small town in upstate New York that I grew up in. I loved growing up where I did; I knew almost everyone I went to high school with and it taught me many valuable life lessons. My town was pretty rural, but more urban areas weren't far: the closest city was only 20 minutes away. Everyone is different, and I believe that the place where one grew up will always hold a special place in their heart. That was the case for me, the following things I learned from growing up in a small town, that I will never forget.
1. You learned at a young age about the consequences of making a bad choice
I knew in elementary school that if I made a mistake or got into a fight with someone, everyone would know. Students, parents, teachers -- word spreads fast in a small town -- it was important to keep a positive reputation of yourself. Word would spread from town town and more people than you could imagine would know what you did. From cheating on a significant other to using drugs, if you got caught, people knew. I don't condone bad behavior, and if your area is like mine was, be careful because you never know what could happen if you made a poor decision.
2. You value tradition
My town was tiny, but we still had Little League, soccer and a summer festival. Growing up, playing soccer or football at the park on Monday and Wednesday nights wasn't uncommon -- or visiting the local ice cream place to pet goats after a final game. Those were memories I still think about from my younger years. As I got older I have great memories from homecoming football games and concerts in the city. Homecoming was a huge deal for my classmates -- each day of the week had a different theme and everyone came out on Friday night to support our football team. Most years that very game would be against our biggest rival which made everything that much more intense and exciting. Local festivals and concerts were something else I enjoyed doing. Being out and exploring with friends was fun but supporting the community around me was also important. For me tradition is more than eating dinner with my family on Christmas or having a birthday party. It's supporting my community and being a part of the towns festivities.
3. You establish deep and lasting friendships
I met my best friend when I was 5, we are still extremely close today. Over the years our friend group has grown and we have all gotten very close. As we have now graduated from high school, I don't see any of us drifting apart. Aside from my close group of friends, I also knew almost everyone I went to school with. I recognized names and faces and often was able to put the two together. When things happened and we need to come together as a grade, or as a whole school it was possible. That is something I think is rare nowadays, I'm very thankful I was able to develop the friendships I did.
For me, I truly think growing up in a smaller, more rural area was the best thing. I don't know how I would like anything else because I haven't ever been anywhere long enough to make connections with people and places like I have with my hometown. Wendy Wunder once said "The magic thing about home is that it feels good to leave, and it feels even better to come back." Home, wherever that may be, brings along comfort and happiness.
