Sr. Simone Campbell is hitting the road, visiting bookstores to listen to people’s stories and discover where they are finding hope in these challenging times. Each day, she shares a heartfelt "postcard" capturing the voices, struggles, and aspirations of those she meets, offering a glimpse into the power of connection and community.
Greetings from Williamsport! After a tour of the Pennsylvania State Capitol and exploration of some of the sites mentioned in our gathering last night, we headed north west ending in Williamsport.
It was a surprising configuration because our host at Otto Books had the idea that people would just drop in and have books signed. However, we had 5 folks who joined us for an hour or so conversation about the reality of this beautiful place in Pennsylvania. Our evening began with a lively discussion about the town's many old churches, each a testament to the town's past when everything was within walking distance. It's fascinating to see how these churches, once bustling with worshippers, have evolved—some have changed denominations, others have been sold or stand empty, reflecting the town's shifting demographics. It was also noted that there are twice as many bars as churches (for whatever that means!)
Thomas, a local, shared insights about the town's history, noting how it was once a tight-knit community where everyone knew each other. Today, Williamsport has transformed, with a population that has dwindled from 80,000 to around 30,000. Despite these changes, the town retains a unique charm, drawing people in with its natural beauty and lower cost of living. The mountains, lakes, and serene landscapes offer a peaceful retreat, just minutes away from the town center. I must say that Williamsport was much more alive than downtown Harrisburg!!
We also delved into the town's educational landscape, with Pennsylvania College of Technology and Lycoming College playing significant roles. These institutions not only draw students but also contribute to the town's vibrancy, with many students choosing to stay after falling in love with the area.
Our conversation naturally flowed into my book, which explores the elements needed to create a strong community. We discussed the importance of a "long and available memory," acknowledging the pain of the world, and fostering effective discourse across generations and cultures. These principles are crucial for building a resilient community, something Williamsport seems to embody. The participants identified how these elements show up in the life of their community.
A special aspect of Williamsport's history is as a site of the Underground Railroad and a refuge for those recovering from substance abuse. It's a place where people come to start anew, drawn by the beauty and serenity that offer a stark contrast to urban life.
As we wrapped up, we reflected on the town's ability to come together in times of crisis, a testament to its strong community bonds. Whether it's the Little League World Series or the natural beauty that surrounds it, Williamsport has a way of drawing people in and making them feel at home. This community, truly is a special place.
While we had a very small group in an unexpected context, the conversation was rich and Ben and I left eager to learn more of this central Pennsylvania city. People seem to avoid discussing politics so that the beauty and harmony can be preserved.
Tomorrow we are off to Erie…another adventure in this rich educational journey!
