It has amazed me recently how people in our community seem just as afraid about the national economy as people I talk to in other parts of the country.
I live in one of the greatest cities economically in the nation. Clarksville, Tennessee recently was awarded a major industrial investment when Hemlock Semiconductors announced an estimated $1.2 Billion investment in our community. By many reports we are one of the top 10 real estate markets in the country. A large portion of our retail base is dependent on Fort Campbell, KY’s more than 30,000 troops who are still being paid monthly. It was announced last week that December was the third highest month for retail sales in our county’s history.
Do I know people who have lost their jobs? Absolutely. Has this economy affected businesses in our community? Without a doubt. Are we suffering as a community as bad as other parts of the country? I don’t think so.
Still, we seem to suffer from blues by association. The mood of the national economy has certainly impacted the mood of our community. Even those who have a job are worried. Perhaps you have experienced similar media-induced moods where you live.
I watched a CNN interview last week with college students from Georgia. Some of them have given up hope on their financial futures. I am a realist, and so I do recognize that the present economic crisis is real, but at the same time, capitalism thrives on hope. Taking risks, remaining optimistic, and dreaming big dreams are all tenants that made our current system work.
Instead of, or at least as much as much as, an economic stimulus package, maybe our country needs a good hope stimulus.
Let it begin with us! Invest some hope in someone today!
