The "Supporting" Argument

We are all familiar with the various ways that the English language can offer a "play on words." We are likely to use several methods in regular conversation every day through onomatopoeia, homophones, sarcasm, alliteration, exaggeration, simile, and metaphor; but are we guilty of misleading others? The answer is often, yes. In these forms, the English language takes on a colorful spin on our comments, discussions, promises, and even questions.

This is true when considering the use of the word "support." We might "provide support" for something, "be supportive" of someone's efforts, provide a "supporting comment," or even "throw our support" toward someone. Still other folks might be reluctant to provide support because they feel that they have little or nothing to offer. Some even seem reluctant to show support for an endeavor because they might feel like they will be required to commit to a specific action, amount of time, or number of dollars. Here's a news flash: Support does not always equal dollars. Support does not always equal time. Support does not always equal commitment. So what does it mean to support my community?

While a few of you out there are reluctant to share with the world that you actually support something, for fear of being held to that opinion, shame on you. We all have something to give. It doesn't need to be a lot and it doesn't need to be time consuming; maybe you're "just a guy that knows a guy." For those of you who give already, what else could you share or where else could you become the next resource?

There is no need to "reinvent the wheel." So often organizations and committees are in search of existing resources within their communities from which they we can draw from, whether expertise, knowledge, a specific skill, or just some new ideas to bring to the table.

Through our commitment to the potential of Greene County Tourism, the Greene County Tourism Group has continued to discover new resources hiding across Greene County. It has been surprising to learn the amount of talent and varied interests represented throughout our county. Who else is hiding out there?

As we embark on a new year, I challenge you to offer your ideas, commit to an evening meeting, or even propose a project to any community-building organization. Don't commit only to your couch or to some game on the tube and instead of making another new year's resolution for yourself, make your commitment count for someone else. It is the acknowledgement that we are the supporting resources within our communities, which can make our communities even greater. This year take a new step in a different direction, be a resource where you have not been before. Find a new outlet for that special interest or talent. Make yourself and your intentions known! You might not realize how much you'll enjoy being that resource for your community.

Support your community, be a resource!