Over the past year our community like all others, has been through some challenging times with the initial pandemic and now a second wave that has almost surprised us all and forced itself once again into our daily lives. Perseverance is one of the words that comes to mind when I think of our community and many of the situations, we find ourselves in these days.
Perseverance as defined by Merriam-Webster is to persist in a state, enterprise, or undertaking despite counterinfluences, opposition, or discouragement; the quality that allows someone to continue trying to do something even though it is difficult.
Persevering is not for the faint of heart. It requires, effort, determination, persistence, and grit. It is hard to know just exactly how we persevere, but there is one thing I do know: the people of this county are hard-working, decent, and honorable and there is one thing that people with those characteristics do well, and that is persevere. That along with the fact that in our rural community with roots of faith running deep, we intrinsically know that overcoming obstacles is what strengthens us and makes us better and that is how the race of life is ultimately won…by persevering.
This year, perseverance hit close to home. Once again, the annual Bright Leaf Hoedown had to be cancelled due to increasing cases of COVID. After a feeling of complete devastation hit as there had been literally months of long days getting all the details set; the hard work was nearly completed. There was a line-up of eight bands…. six of which boasted Caswell grown talent or people who now choose to live here. The food vendors were promising a wide array of amazing local fare, the activities for the children included a full day of activities and fun; the cornhole tournament, return of the street dance, as well several new contests and events. A fantastic 2021 Hoedown Special Section was nearly ready to go to print with stories written by locals, profiles of the bands, features of the crafters and the small businesses participating and so much more. All had to be unplanned and undone.
But, the local chamber will continue to persevere, and we invite you to join us.
Thank you to the community for your perseverance in supporting the excitement during the Hoedown planning. If the enthusiasm from this year is an indication, when we get going in 2022, this event could possibly be one of the best in our community’s history.
As published in Discover Caswell Fall 2021
By AC Hodges
