07/14/2025
I've come to realize a great deal recently that colors my impression of Washington. I've only been here for five years which is truly no time at all, especially according to locals. Many who read this don't care at all what I think and I honestly don't blame them.
The complexities of this town and people are long standing, like any community. I came here knowing nothing of the south aside from what I learned in history books, literature, movies and was taught in private Christian school in "the north." The north is certainly no pillar of equality either but I've heard phrases and words escape people's lips here, that we would have tasted soap for in my home, church and community. I came knowing there was racism in the past and wasn't dumb enough to think it was altogether solved but was a bit shocked at what I saw, heard and perceive as discrimination.
What I saw was also through my lens which like everyone, is smudged up with a lifetime of experiences and perceptions. Not perfect to be sure.
What I think now, and I may be wrong, is there are no distinct heroes or villains. While many certainly shared my view and saw me as another, needed voice in the chorus, others saw me as awful, an outsider disturbing the peace. I probably ended up being a bit of both and didn't plan on being either. We really moved here because we fell in love with a house and wanted peace and quiet.
Everyone who chooses to live in Washington likes the way it is or they would move or do something to change it. ALOT of folks move in and move out. It's happened just in the five years I've been here. It's no wonder you're skeptical of "outsiders." I don't believe anyone gets "run out of town" as I've often heard. I think people see something they didn't expect and understand the culture is very hard wired so if they don't fit, and have the means, they go. If I knew then what I know now, I'd have done many things differently. I still think it's a beautiful and unique town with infinite possibilities but any change, if one is even desired, has to come from the people who have been here for generations. Most seem quite content with the way things are and that's A okay. A damn Yankee is in no position to say otherwise.
