I grew up in a small town, much like Picayune and Poplarville.
Most of you are probably familiar with Bay St. Louis and Waveland, which is but a short drive from here.
I love my coastal hometown, with its quaint atmosphere and quiet lifestyle.
To this day, my favorite method of relaxation and deep thinking occurs when I drive down Beach Boulevard with my car windows rolled down.
In my opinion, one of the greatest things, which can sometimes be one of the most negative, about living in a small town is the close-knit aspect derived from everyone knowing each other’s families and growing up together.
Every time I’m in the grocery store in Hancock County, people stop me and ask which of the Favres I’m related to.
However, what I see most often in towns the size of Picayune and Poplarville, is an intense desire to help their friends and family.
In a sense, the entire community is a family.
If a family member passes away, many people not only offer condolences, but also attend the funeral and bring prepared meals to those in mourning.
After Hurricane Katrina, I witnessed my fellow residents help each other build back what was lost.
Community organizations play a big part in a city and I’ve witnessed many outpourings of generosity from the people in this county.
While sometimes anonymity can be a wonderful thing, it’s still nice to know that if I need assistance, whether it is car trouble or a shoulder to cry on, I know I can count on the people who have surrounded me throughout my lifetime.
I’ve always had dreams of leaving South Mississippi and venturing forth to see what else out is there and, maybe, one day, I will.
But for now, I will continue to enjoy my southern lifestyle, by eating as much seafood as I can, visiting New Orleans, driving down the beach and visiting family and friends who mean so much.
While we don’t have the amenities of larger cities, such as shopping malls and chain restaurants, our small southern towns have something more worthwhile and precious, each other.