2013 is almost done!
The year, for better or worse, has slipped away, leaving us to wonder anew at the fleeting minutes and hours and days that make up our lives.
In our community, 2013 was, overall, at least for many of us, a good year, filled with highlights and lowlights, acts of kindness and, unfortunately, thrown into the uncertain mix , a few acts of unkindness.
The civic election, held in October brought many issues, which had been simmering on the back burner, to the boiling point. And once again, people exercised their democratic right and went to the polls to cast their ballots.
And once again, the majority ruled.
Unfortunately, Rimbey laid claim to some mudslinging and verbal slams that did nothing to elevate neither the receiver of the assaults or the people who took it upon themselves to deliver the cutting, cruel remarks.
On the flip side, it is worth noting that the town is not known for its apathy. Public opinion, even if it is sometimes misplaced, is a freedom which is well exercised in this community. It seems Rimbey is privy to some very outspoken individuals who are ruthless in making their opinion heard. Sadly, these voices, shrill in their intensity, stir up an emotional kettle of fish, and the truth gets distorted, sometimes even ignored.
But, 2014 is a new year and the dragons of distrust, anger and accusations have not yet had time to rear their ugly heads. And the potential to build on the past in a positive, healthy and constructive way still exists.
It’s good to note the walking trails are finished with very favourable results. They are being well used and do lend a favourable impression to Rimbey as being a town that cares about beautification, promoting health and fitness and having an appreciation for the great outdoors.
The new AGRIM centre is slowly taking shape and as the massive structure continues to take shape, it becomes increasingly clear that the agricultural society’s vision is soon to become a reality. Good for the Rimbey Ag Society for taking their dreams and hopes and turning them into a reality which has the potential to become a tangible positive for the town.
Attracting new business to town appears to be a priority for town council and it will be interesting to note not only if this goal is achieved, but how they will go about making it happen.
The town has many positives to offer, but, as with any rural centre, there are always drawbacks and challenges to be faced.
One of the positives about the town which has been evident in the past and which will, no doubt, continue into the future is a sense of community, of pride and of ownership.
People not only want to see things happen, they are ready to take action to make it happen.
Such a proactive approach is the secret to overcoming roadblocks and achieving goals and accomplishment, the less optimistic crowd would not deem possible.
So, as we head into 2014, we can rest assured it will not be without challenges and unforeseen difficulties.
But, the people of Rimbey can also be confident there are lots of hardworking individuals out there who are willing to step outside the box of tradition and do whatever necessary to keep the town in which they live vibrant and alive, not only for this generation, but for generations to come.
So, Happy New Year and, for each and every one of our readers, may 2014 be the best year ever!
— On The Other Side