by Tennessee Grace

Created on: July 18, 2007

We are often mysteriously drawn to surroundings similar to what grew up with in our childhood. Whatever the opinions expressed in these articles, you will subjectively lean toward whatever you are already familiar with. That being said, please at least consider a few ideas here.

The cacophony of sound in the city is energizing at first, but deafening when you long to hear the messages and clarity of thought only found in silence. You feel a part of the excitement and mayhem, but then doesn't it seem like you are on a merry-go-round and it doesn't stop, just gets faster and faster. It doesn't take you anywhere but this little circle, and the movement is fun, but the lack of destination is meaningless.

The city lights are beautiful at night, but often loneliness creeps in as it appears the world is fully alive and everyone is out partying but you. ...And the parties, they are fun, but somehow leave you a bit hollow when you leave. Nothing about them really fills your spirit up.

Have you ever seen the Milky Way at night? You know, the trillions of stars all shining so bright they almost look like a broad strip of creamy milk from one side of the sky to another? Have you ever sat still long enough to hear every sound as the sun sets and the evening fills with the songs of the night?

Have you ever worked so hard bucking hay bales, splitting firewood or building fences, that the ice cold lemonade or sweet iced tea you sat down to drink was like the refreshment of heaven? You feel strong and energized and fulfilled, and somehow, the world makes a little more sense. Is that peace you feel? Peace that you have done an honest days work and the sun and the birds and the dogs and horses, the cattle over in the next field, and the cool brook you wade through on your way back to the house,...they all were witnesses of your work. It almost seems like they were cheering you on, giving you momentum to get it done. But that surely couldn't be.

Have you ever turned the TV and the I-pod off and listened to the music of the birds and crickets, the coyotes in the distance, the water in the spring fed creek? Watch closely, listen well, and then you tell me...is it better to live in the city or the country?

Learn more about this author, Tennessee Grace.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.