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like others in this county, want to know how to deal with change. Cellular towers, wider highways, school needs and boundaries are just some of the issues that need to be dealt with wisely, fairly and honestly.
According to Webster’s Dictionary of Synonyms, there are degrees of change. For instance, a difference which occurs without a loss of identity is a change that alters. With some thought, you can alter a road without changing the rural nature of it.
A difference due to shifting, growth or diversification is a variation, which can sometimes deviate from the normal or usual. Although towers make a variation in the usual scenic views, with planning they don’t have to change the scenic outline.
Then, there’s the difference that limits or restricts by modifying. With forethought, zoning codes can modify the type of development without changing the allowance for growth.
Obviously, there are certain adjustments which are required just because we live on this planet with others. But do these requirements mean I must adjust to a lifestyle I don’t approve? What is the Rubicon that irrevocably commits me to a change I cannot endure?
I asked some of my fellow Rappahannock residents what makes the county meaningful to them and what they think of changes that might come? Here are some of their answers:
• A common value we all share in the county is an appreciation of the environment. Feeling closer to it and wanting to maintain it. Even though change may occur because of growth, it doesn’t necessarily mean a disappearance of what we love. In fact, we need to preserve and have growth, finding ways that do both, a give and take. There are areas that have achieved development and preservation of the environment.
• It doesn’t seem people share quite the same attitude as they once did, a simple life, care for your neighbor, get to know your neighbors. We used to help each other haying, snow-plowing each others driveways, but being too busy, the fast tract, has almost taken over. Violence on TV and in the movies is also trying to take over the values we share. I find walking out of a bad movie, though losing my money, is better than sitting through the violence. Even if changes occur here, we can take a stand so that our values won’t change.
• My reasons for moving here may differ from most. At first I commuted to work and then in retirement traveled. Now, the county means more because I’ve participated in it more. Being a volunteer and seeing others be active in this way helps me to appreciate the work that is being done by so many. One example is the literacy program. Even though there may be changes in land use and population, helping others helps to make values remain.
• Because of my husband’s work, our activities were involved in many of the Washington, D.C. events. Moving from McLean, it was a different life here. I have a deep love for this
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