While the
Knowledge Is Power post elicited the most comments received at this site, the multiple entries about town eyesores brought out strong responses, too.
One response referenced
President Teddy Roosevelt's comments about
critics. Put in today's terms, this commentator -- or critic -- was talking about armchair quarterbacks. Does anyone have a mirror handy?
The critic alluded to insider information and inferred professional associations, while insinuating other's dishonest and self-serving intentions. The critic weighted the convenience of contractors over town residents, and costs in absolutes instead of variables. What does that infer?
This brings to mind another Roosevelt quote:
Speak softly and carry a big stick. Or, in today's terms: You'll know what I think you need to know when I think you need to know it, and if you don't agree -- I will pull out my big stick and beat you with it.
The critic assumed his/her "information" wasn't already known and understood, while also posing as a casual observer.
Let's take off the blinders and enjoy a wider view -- we're a big town now. Discard past exclusionary practices and recognize the desire for a healthy Christiansburg is
not limited to just "lifelong" residents, town employees, current office holders, beneficiaries of broadly written policy, or any particular market niche.
Who cares about Christiansburg and how it continues to evolve is not limited to a single constituency. There's no justification for trying to play the turnip truck card, or other dismissive tactics.
All this, while a diversion, contributes to citizen disengagement. It serves as ballast for reaching common goals: continuously improving our community and the provision of affordable public services to the widest number of citizens.
This site is not mere criticism. The intent is to stimulate a deeper thinking about various topics pertinent to all Christiansburg residents. The focus will remain on
open government,
public engagement through inclusive dialog and processes, and the accountability necessary for defining Christiansburg's current and future path with respect to its being connected to the wider NRV community.