Change is inevitable. We are taught that at an early age.
As children we mark the milestones in our lives.
The problem is we don’t like change. Some dislike it more than others but we all resist it. Change is stressful and can be uncomfortable.
Nevertheless, we can’t stop it.
Recently I have seen dramatic photos of the Okanagan a generation ago.
It is hard to imagine what it must have been like, with no highway connecting our communities and large stretches with no sign of civilization.
Back then, I am sure people thought it would always be that way. Likely some fought hard against anything that might create changes.
Still, changes came.
The highway was built, communities grew with more housing, people settled in, had children and built a life.
The Okanagan Valley was a draw back then and continues to be a draw now.
This valley has experienced tremendous growth in the last five years, according to the 2016 census. Most of it in the north end but it seems logical that growth will head south eventually.
This is a very desirable place to live and raise a family.
Summerland is well poised to encourage and accept this growth, if you are willing to.
The word growth scares people. It means change will come.
More people walking down the street for a coffee.
More cars in the roundabout.
More kids running around and riding their bikes.
Might be harder to find that seat in your favourite restaurant.
It also means more vibrancy and energy.
Growth means more friendly neighbours. It means the potential for more variety in the small business community.
Perhaps less reason to drive to Penticton to shop for items you can’t find here.
It means more hands on deck to plan events, volunteer and shape the cultural aspect that is so important to Summerland.
I would encourage everyone to take a step back and really think about the changes in Summerland that are happening every day.
Change is much easier to handle if you acknowledge it. Summerland has an opportunity to plan to grow.
Other communities in the Okanagan didn’t have that advantage.
Growth was thrust upon them and as a result, they play catch up with infrastructure and planning.
With change in mind, I am saying good-bye to the Summerland Review today and this will be my last column.
I am moving on to another opportunity at our sister paper, The Kelowna Capital News.
I will miss the staff here and all of the outstanding people I have met.
Thanks for your support of this paper, and my column. It was a fun atmosphere and I have learned a ton, which I will take with me into my new position. Best of luck to all of you!
Until Friday, Rob Murphy was the sales manager at the Summerland Review.