Sense of Place

This semester has been entertaining and enlightening. Our diverse class had many spirited discussions and debates and I am now more open-minded for being a part of them. Throughout the semester we have been talking about sense of place. The Mayor of Hudson that we spoke to on our field trip recently has a strong sense of place for the city of Hudson because he grew up there. Just as I have a strong sense of place for my hometown, whereas a tourist passing through may not think it is that special. I believe sense of place is much more than just entertaining activities or sights. In order to have a sense of place, one must really understand and appreciate the little things about that place. This is why I believe citizens of communities should have more say than others on issues such as the SLC cement company, and whether or not it should be built along the Hudson. Company executives who do not live along the Hudson do not have a real understanding of all of the rich tradition that the Hudson has to offer. They do not realize that developments that may benefit the community economically can destroy priceless history. The Hudson River has played a crucial part in our history. Hopefully, the river will get the attention and care it deserves so that it can continue to play an important role in our future.