Across the state of Wisconsin there are highway signs that read: WARNING: Low Flying Aircraft. These are typically in rural areas with small planes dropping what I assume is fertilizer for the crops. After reading these signs, I noticed my eyes are on red alert for low flying planes.

This makes me think about the assumptions I make about connected, welcoming communities where everyone belongs.   Are my assumptions positive, or do they create a negative view?    Media (social and television) also often contribute to not telling a positive story. Peter Block talks about the story we tell about our community. He offers that if we don’t like the stories we are hearing, we should create a different one. Obviously it’s more complicated than the stories we tell but if we pay attention to everyone and need everyone’s gifts….

On a recent drive I drove through a town whose welcome sign said it is famous for friendliness. Things change when we pay attention to the gifts, welcome, hospitality and possibilities.