We Are Where We Come From!

I've heard them say, "You can take the boy out of the country, but you can't take the country outta the boy."  If ever there is a statement that describes me, I think a twist on this statement might describe me.  You can take the boy outta Montana, but you can't take the Montana outta the boy."  Now I am not saying this to state that I am homesick.  As a matter of fact, I had a great visit at home during Memorial Day Weekend, but I was also happy to get back to my new life.  In the same sense however, i think after you live somewhere, a certain amount of time, there are certain things that just kinda make you who you are.  Just as any region can influence the foods you like, the music you listen to, or your hobbies, the place you spend a good portion of of your life has an impact on how you think and respond to situations you are put in.

This past weekend I took a drive up Highway 503 past Lake Merwin up toward Swift Lake by the Mt St. Helen's Volcanic Center.  It was great to get out and spend a little time in nature. I can tell you it was a beautiful drive, yet not nearly what I expected. Growing up in Montana, I spent a lot of time in the country, either on horseback, hiking, camping. or just taking a nice drive.  I always enjoyed as I would take one of those rides, or drives, the beauty around me and being able to see down the valley.  As much as I was aware of the beauty around me, It was difficult enjoying it because of how green and thick it was.  I found myself chuckling under my breath at the same time after remembering conversations the previous week at work about concerns of fire danger.  All I can say is... "Come to Montana!"  I was hoping I could make the entire loop around St. Helens and come around the other side toward the visitor center, or at least that was my plan.  I had heard on the news a couple weeks earlier the road all the way to the center was open and cleared from snow.  Silly me to think this meant the loop road,  As I hit the sign and road block of closed road, I wondered why.  All I saw was beautiful green, EVERYWHERE.  As I turned around and headed back the way I came, I stopped at the Volcanic Center to inquire within.  I was informed that the snow has not been cleared yet on that section of the road and even once it has, the ashy soil still is somewhat unstable and it can be August before that last section of the road is open.  Are you serious?  August?  half the summer tourism season is over!!  Again I was reminded I wasn't in Montana anymore.  Just the day before, I had seen the MDOT sign and every business in Red Lodge proudly sharing that the Beartooth Highway was OPEN all the way!! 

I must say, the drive was still truly breathtaking. The small hike I took was completely what I needed to refresh my mind.  There are such beautiful areas all across this great country, all unique in their splendor just as each of us have our own completely unique gifts and talents.  We each have something special to bring to the table if we only listen and take the time to understand where the other is coming from.  There is much value in putting yourself in someone else's shoes and understanding what has influenced them, before jumping to conclusions.  This is something I am working on and trying to keep in the back of my mind as I learn the dynamics of not only a new office, but everyone I come in contact with.  I must remind myself,  'Your not in Montana anymore!"