In the fall of 2012, I was invited to participate in a strategic leadership visit. A sizable group of Fayette County leaders representing multiple constituencies (business, civic, government, education, social service and — yes — religious interests) traveled to Williamson County, Tenn., just outside of Nashville.
We went to listen and learn. We listened to community representatives very similar to ourselves. We learned about planning, relationships and experiences that were helpful and instructive in the recent development of a community that shares many economic and demographic traits with Fayette County. I came away impressed and inspired. More importantly, I came home grateful for our community and committed to helping keep it great.
In the faith-based community, there is an often-cited passage from the Old Testament that reinforces the life-enhancing power of vision: “Where there is no vision, the people perish” (Proverbs 29:18, KJV).
We might paraphrase the Scripture this way: When communities share a common vision, the community’s life is enhanced, enriching and dynamic. I desire that for my family, my congregation and my community.
Clear vision enables humans and animals to navigate and function effectively in their respective environments. Clear vision allows individuals and groups to recognize opportunities, protect the vulnerable from danger and join together in meaningful endeavors. Clear vision identifies challenges, avoids potential pitfalls and proactively prepares for the future.
Our area has benefited immensely from the vision and commitment of many who have come before us. We can now enjoy the balance of rural and urban settings; our children and grandchildren can receive a well-rounded education that prepares them to excel in lifelong pursuits; most of us can enjoy a pleasant quality of life as a result of forward thinking, responsible leaders of previous generations.
Individuals (such as Chief William McIntosh, Truett Cathy, Joel Cowan, Floy Farr) and community groups (like the real estate development team that assembled Peachtree City, the consortium that “landed” the Great Georgia Air Show, the economic development team that lured Pinewood Studios) have exercised wisdom and clear vision to bring us to our current position. We are indebted to these individuals and groups for their foresight and perseverance.
But, we cannot simply rest on their successes. Time does not stand still and our world is constantly changing. If we hope to maximize our resources and preserve our standard of living, we must build upon the solid foundation provided by prior generations and clarify our vision for the generations to come.
I am actively participating on the Fayette Visioning Process. I encourage all of our citizens — young and mature, able-bodied and those of different abilities, of every ethnic and religious configuration — to join me in the conversation and discernment about our future life together. With a shared vision, our community is best positioned to flourish.
Find out how you can get involved and get the latest visioning initiative news by going to www.fayettevision.org.
[Dr. Steve Dodson is senior pastor of Peachtree City United Methodist Church and a member of the Fayette Visioning Initiative Steering Committee.]
