What?

     Have you ever heard someone say something that completely contradicts who they are as a person? My outspoken personality is somewhat of a burden when this occurs. Today is not your day and I'm not the person you need to ask for a honest opinion. Don't ever ask me any questions. I will not sugar coat anything. Said person asked me when will I be "from here and be a local?"  

    Well, I didn't hesitate. It's a simple answer and I'm not so sure he was ready for what I had to say. "Never." You'll eventually be accepted and welcomed, but when things aren't in your favor people will always remind you that you moved here. Roots run deep here in small town USA. My favorite neighbor has been her for years and she still runs into this from time to time. When an older person asks me about my folks, I always start with my great grandparents and work my way down. Usually, they will know one of them. You cannot just simply fit in here by association. I don't know what it's like in other towns, but it has always remained the same here. Nothing ever really changes. Mindsets were made years ago and is what will remain for generations to come. 

    Money cannot be that acceptance either. You can buy all the land you want, but locally you will still be an outsider. Most of my high school peers assumed I moved away. The first thing that is normally said is, "wow you finally decided to come home" or "I see you gave up and moved back." I cannot go in our local grocery store and simply leave without having a family gathering or a meet up in the isles. I always see a friendly face and have a small chat. I think the is one massive reason I like living here. No matter what business I go in there is always someone I know. To be a local also means that others know how, where, and what is going on in your life. They know who, when, where, and why you married. Hallmark movie extremes. lol!