The Auburn-Opelika area has been around for quite a while (since the 1830s), and many people believe that the region’s prime was long ago when life was simpler and more wholesome.
It seems to be the fate of every younger generation and every new era of society to be unappreciated by the older, wiser members of the community who remember the “good old days.”
And while I am sure the good old days had their merits, I want to take this chance to point out that although things might have been great way back when, Auburn today has its virtues as well.
Take for example, the booming population. Many older members of our community look back on the slower, less crowded Lee County and see the city’s recent growth as a sad trampling out of a beloved lifestyle.
However, many of the best things about our area are only possible because of the growing population. For example, our local fine arts museum, our multi-screen movie theater, our increasingly diverse choice of dining and our excellent public schools system (which requires property taxes for funding).
Not to mention the population itself, which is becoming more and more diverse and culturally rich. (Something that in a lot of respects makes our area stand out against neighboring communities.)
On top of this, the modern era has ushered in all kinds of new technology.
Now, I understand that some people are less impressed than others with the flashy gadgets that define our generation (touchscreen iPods and Web-surfing cell phones, for example).
But there have also been great advances created and popularized recently that have made the planet a better place.
Take for instance, the emergence of electric cars onto the market, recent innovations in wind and solar power, water filters to help people in Third World countries gain access to clean water, and of course rapidly advancing medical treatments.
It’s a time honored tradition for the more mature members of a community to reflect on the days when they were young and life was more carefree and fun for them, before they were burdened with responsibilities and eventually bad health.
But it is just as important to remember the past as it is to appreciate the present, especially when the present offers so many things to enjoy.
Colette Robicheaux is a junior at Auburn High School and writes a column for the Opelika-Auburn News.
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