vitalwholeness

Some of the finest things pass unnoticed before our sleepy eyes. Like our state’s parks and facilities, for instance!

In recent travels we have enjoyed visiting some of the facilities overseen by our Missouri Department of Natural Resources. Outstanding! Whether it be parks, camping facilities, a site of historic preservation, or hiking trails, our natural environment has been both protected and made available to the public through careful management and oversight.

This is one example of the important role of state government for a society. This is not a case of government mismanagement and reckless spending – the caricature we hear all the time. To the contrary, this is good stewardship by the people for all the people. And some things deserve the attention of more than the private sector; they belong to the public. This requires tax support. And that’s alright by me. I appreciate that my portion is used for such a noble purpose.

And while I’m on a roll, the green space and parks of Columbia’s Parks and Recreation are another example. Provided to increase the quality of life for all our citizens, these facilities provide space for organized sports, fishing, picnicking, hiking and all the rest. It takes a community to insure a quality of life for the community. It takes a state to do the same for an entire state. And yes, it takes special focused effort of a nation to provide for enduring, safe, sustained natural resources.

Some initiatives are best envisioned and implemented in the private sector. Some are best stewarded by local communities. While others of broader scope best overseen by state and federal government. It’s about the common good. And wisdom helps us decide which is most appropriate in each case.