Tucumcari ‘family' must work together to face challenges

But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

— Philippians 4:19

With spring on the horizon there is promise of new life and new beginnings around our home.

Some of the trees are starting to bud and right out our kitchen window is a pair of doves building their new home in a rather precarious location.

Instead of building their nest in a tree, they decided to build in the metal framework on the edge of our back porch.

Every morning as I have my first cup of coffee, I watch the pair working hard to build their new home. While one searches the ground for the perfect twig or blade of grass, you can see the other working frantically to weave the previous offering into the nest.

Each day I see progress on their dream home.

The nest isn’t the best of locations, as a strong storm could blow it away or flood it if rain came from the right direction. No matter what the drawbacks are, these two are determined to make a home for their future offspring.

Lately I’ve heard a great deal of criticism about our town, how it is dying. It is true the population isn’t what it once was, but it is still a wonderful place to raise a family. I enjoy the fact that it is a small town with so many friendly people.

For example, every time I go shopping in the various stores, the clerks know me by name and are eager to help.

In the restaurants we frequent, the waitresses know our preferences and usually bring our beverage even before we ask for it.

Of course there are always several people we know to visit with and catch up with what is going on in their lives.

Since my husband Mark grew up in Tucumcari, he has a bond with people that grew up here as well. Even I know numerous people.

Most of all, we have a church family that is closer to us than some of our family members. I can’t count the times they came to our aid when one of us were sick, lost a family member, or faced some sort of crisis in our lives. By the same token, we try to help others when they have a need.

This bond we share amplifies our worship experience as we come together on Sunday, Wednesday, and during other special events. I especially look forward to worshipping together as a church family on Easter morning as we celebrate our risen Lord and Savior.

Like our little family of birds, we face challenges living in Tucumcari, but we need to work together to make it the best home possible for all of us.

Let’s learn to be content as Paul was in Philippians 4:11 and look for all the wonderful things our little town has to offer. It’s a great place to live.

Debra Whittington is a longtime resident of Tucumcari. Contact her at:

dawhittington@msn.com