A Place Called Home

Karen O’Leary

- Karen O’Leary

 “Did you say West Fargo, North Dakota?  Glad I don’t live in that frozen tundra, a half century behind the rest of the country.”  The Virginian rolled his eyes.

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All right, the scenario is a bit exaggerated, but people do have the tendency to think of the state as backwards in many ways.  I say it isn’t so.  We have iPods, cell phones, computers, and other modern gadgets that are wrought with their modern-day problems.
We drive cars not horse drawn carriages.  In fact, few of my neighbors can afford a horse, board, and vet bills--not to mention a saddle and other riding gear.  Most are middle class families, many whom have been challenged in these economic times.

Nestled along her bigger sister, Fargo, West Fargo has a population of about 36,000 and is one of the fastest growing cities in North Dakota.  It is a 14.72 square mile (38.12 km2) community of mixed heritage tucked in the Red River Valley. West Fargo was founded in 1926.
West Fargo citizens enjoy clean air and the freedom to step outside at midnight without fear of being mugged. Churches have expanded and added editions.  Work ethic and Midwestern values continue to flourish.  Many neighbors can cross yards without fences.
We are city of many cultures, welcoming refugees. Walking down the side walks around our home, I feel blessed to see different races getting along and greeting each other. A woman from Africa had a beautiful brightly-dress along with coordinating head scarf in church. I was able to share how much I loved the outfit before her family whisked her away.

“We have a higher calling” Fargo Forum article and above photo. The newly built facility will be a 30-unit complex in West Fargo is to help homeless families and individuals into permanent living apartments, places to call home. The refrigerator has I note by a 7-year-old saying, “Welcome to a fun life.” I’m proud that Grace Gardens is a part of what our community is about.
Winters can get ugly with below zero temperatures and white-out blizzards.  Sunny California looks mighty tempting at times in mid-January.  Then I remember spring is just around the corner with its green grass and flowers.  It gives me pause to
smile.

Welcome sign, I designed outside our side entrance to our home.  We hope it conveys the warmth that comes from within.

My husband and I started our lives as newlyweds here in 1983.  We raised two daughters in safety and security.  Our lifestyle is honest and comfortable. God has blessed us with riches that cannot be measured with dollars.  I am grateful for this place we call home.

Setu, August 2019