Yes, I'm from Ripley, WV, and If there’s one thing I know, it’s that growing up in a small town has completely shaped who I am today. It’s in the way I address people, it’s in the way I smile at everyone I pass by, and it’s in the way I work hard and do my best to keep moving forward. Growing up in a small town is something that I wish everyone could experience. It’s something you can’t explain and you only really see in movies. There’s a sense of safety and community one can only get by being a part of a little old town.

Everyone really does know each other for the most part. Most families have lived in our small town their whole lives, going back generation after generation. I went to the same high school as both of my parents and my grandparents. Most of my teachers knew me because of my older sibling that went there before me. You won’t be able to go to the store without seeing at least five people you know. Somewhere, there’s somebody that knows you or your parents and will probably tell them what you were doing the next time they see them.

We all know each other’s business, whether we want to or not. You learn just as much about someone if you go to school as you do if you go get your hair done at the beauty salon. Not that this is necessarily a bad thing. Because no matter what happens, a small town will have your back. Good or bad, rain or shine, you can always count on the support of the town and its people. It’s a really beautiful thing, to see people come together and show love and support to others. Most of the time, families have known each other for generations past. Bonds stick and they last through the years.

There isn’t much to do. Maybe there’s a movie theater, but there’s probably a Wal-Mart where you know there will be people hanging out, maybe even playing Corn Hole. (Do people still do that or am I getting old?) Everyone in town makes it out to Friday night football games, young and old. You make the most of what you have and you don’t let that stop you from living your life and enjoying every second, no matter how boring it can get.

The people you’re friends with in high school won’t always be by your side, and it’s a really weird thought. When I graduated, I couldn’t imagine not seeing my best friends every day. The thing about a small town is there’s probably not a college in it or people want to get out and see the world. People are going their separate ways and eventually you lose touch. But, one thing I’ve learned is no matter how far you get, the second you see each other again you’re right back to where you were before.

Growing up in a small town is one of the best things about my life. I couldn’t have asked for a better place to grow up. I can't thank my little town enough for everything it's taught me and the life it has given me. No matter how old I get or how far away I move, I know that this town will always hold a special place in my heart. Like a boomerang, I will always come right back to where I started. And I think that’s a beautiful thing.