Hayward Locals Should Act Like Tourists

A recent visitor from Chicago said, "I wish I could just quit my job and live in Hayward full time. It would be like living in heaven!"

I smiled, and thought, "He sure doesn't know what it's like to live here!"

Later, relating this conversation to a Hayward native, I said, "Poor fellow doesn't realize that living in the Northwoods is a far cry from vacationing here."

To this, my Hayward friend replied, "If that's the way it is for you, then you're doing it wrong."

"I think the citizens of Hayward ought to act like tourists," he continued, "We should take advantage of all our community has to offer! We should jump in the lake, canoe down the Namekagon, hike in the Chequamegon Forest, go fishing, attend the Lumberjack Show, and buy candy at Trembley's. We should travel the bike path, drink java at Backroads, go camping, feast at Famous Dave's, window shop on Main Street, drive go karts, play mini-golf, and have homemade ice cream at West's Dairy"

"We live in a glorious place,” he continued, “and it's a sad shame if we don't make the most of it!"

His response hit me right between the eyes! Of course! Why didn't I see it before? Here we are, living in one America's most beautiful communities -- and we end up too busy to enjoy it.

My friend is right. The good folks from Illinois, Minnesota, Iowa and Indiana are willing to drive for hours to get what we have in our own backyard! Let's take advantage of this wonderful opportunity!

One of the great things Hayward offers is a chance to slow down, relax and recharge. Nature provides a good place to reflect on life. “The Wilderness,” as Nancy Wynne Newhall observed, “holds answers to more questions than we have yet learned to ask.” One does not need to be a tourist to experience that.

Of course, we must work to make a living -- but can't we work in context? Can't we pause, relax, and be grateful for living in such a beautiful place? Quiet reflection will improve both our work and attitude.

"Follow effective action with quiet reflection." advised Peter Drucker, "From quiet reflection will come even more effective action."