There is a charm and warmth in Western Oklahoma’s small towns. I first came to Western Oklahoma, specifically Cordell, in 1995. I had lived in many small towns in other states prior to moving here, but was immediately taken with this area.
When I moved here, I was greeted with the same welcome and questions. “We are so glad you’re here! Now who are you kin to? And have you found a church home?” The greeting was consistent and felt sincere.
When I moved here, I was surprised to see that drivers wave to one another as they travel about town. I was fascinated by the convenience stores with their drive-thru windows (now THAT is convenience!) and enjoyed that the employees quickly learned my name and knew my usual order and often had it ready for me as I pulled up. I was taken by the many rituals and routines of local folks, such as the youth “dragging main” and the farmers meeting for 5 am coffee at local diners. I felt as if many people cared as I moved through this town, from the ladies at the grocery store asking how my dad was doing, to the nurses at the local clinic praising the manners of my children. The hourly ringing of the courthouse bell has been the sound of my home for over 25 years. These things have made memories that I shall carry to the end of my days.
I cannot imagine a better place to raise a family, or spend sweltering summers at the pool or park, enjoying festivals and parades and school spirit! Western Oklahoma has been a home like none I have experienced before. The people are kind, caring, and generous, the food comes with cheese or gravy, and the fountain drinks and sweet tea are served in bottomless cups.
It did take quite some time to feel as if I was a legitimate Western Oklahoman. I think that is because so many folks were born in the area and have stayed throughout their lives, so anyone moving in is “new.” Becoming a local takes some time out here, for me it took quite a while, but I am proud to say I am a Western Oklahoman... for just a week or so longer.
I am sad to announce I am leaving the area for the bustling metropolitan area; however, a new adventure awaits! No longer will I be greeted by familiar faces, stroll calm streets, or enjoy the quiet unique to this small town. Instead, I will be a stranger again. I am going to miss being a member of this community, but I want to say that I am taking a part of Western Oklahoma with me and plan to share it with others: the kindness, the caring, the generosity that is Western Oklahoma through and through!
Here are my parting words of wisdom to those who are interested: Take care of one another, welcome new people wholeheartedly (even if they seem very different), and lastly--learn about new things and concepts, and weigh them logically before rejecting them just because they are not the way things have always been done or might require making some changes.
Thank you kindly for allowing me to share my knowledge with each of you, for life-long friendships, and for your love and support in this community. I can say with no uncertainty, this small town will always be my hometown. I am blessed to have finished my childhood here and raised children here. I have established my career here, worked with community organizations and churches here, and met the finest people. I have lived and loved in Western Oklahoma, and that will always be with me. Many Blessings to you, people of Western Oklahoma.
Sarah Mears-Ivy brings 13 years of experience in the field of human sciences and advocacy.