Driving out of the city and into North Missouri, the stress of every day starts to ease away. Off of Interstate 35, turn east on Highway 6 which takes a traveler through the rolling hills of Daviess, Grundy and Sullivan Counties. Home to farms and ranches, the road travels by lakes and rivers and into a bit of a slower pace offered by each rural community along the way. Roll down the window or put the top down and breath in the air purified by the abundant nature which now surrounds. Turn up the radio (or off if preferred) and enjoy the ride.
If you’re lucky enough to take in a community festival, then take the time to watch the families and friends gathered. Introduce yourself. Participate. Bring a lawn chair and sit right down. Community becomes more than a city block or an anonymous crowd. Community becomes defined by the underlying murmur of those sharing the local gossip or catching up. The pulse beats with the local band playing while the crowd taps their toes and nods their heads in unison. Food vendors offer a taste of local favor. There’s a welcoming sense of security where children run between games, family, friends, and the stage, most of the time spreading freshly popped popcorn on their way. Their laughter becomes part of the pleasant cacophony of sound.
