The beauty of Flint: What it taught me

Flint.

I love this city. At the same time I’m sad for this city. I’m sad that so many people can’t see its potential or that some people can’t realize that it’s not the city it once was.

It’s changing. And there are so many people and organizations that want to see great things happen in the city.

But, you see, I used to be that person that was a little unsure about Flint. So much has changed over the past few years. And I’ve learned so much.

I’ve been put out of my comfort zone, talked to complete strangers, took over a community cookout with some friends, helped create a blog to tell stories of people who have lived on the streets (Flint Stories Project).

I have been changed. Flint has changed me. Flint’s people have changed me.

Here is what I have learned:

• Everyone has a story. Listen to it. Learn from it. Don’t judge.
• If we want to see Flint changed, we MUST take action. Talking about it and brainstorming about it is not good enough. Change never happened by simply talking about it.
• Being committed and continuing to show up even when it’s inconvenient for you makes a bigger difference than you know. Allow people to trust in what you believe.
• Some people you meet downtown will be crazy. Love them anyways.
• Some people will make you uncomfortable. Being in your comfort zone isn’t as great as it sounds. Being uncomfortable helps you grow.
• Doing great things in Flint or in any city will not be easy. It is stressful. But it will be worth it.
• Be open to suggestions. Things can always be improved. But hold on to your vision and your purpose.
• Try and go with the flow. Things will change. Things will not always go as planned. It is OK.
• Try new things anyways.
• Flint is beautiful. The people are beautiful. They are just looking for a little hope and people who care.

If you haven’t been to Flint in awhile, do yourself a favor and get downtown. Check out the new Flint Farmers Market. You will not be disappointed. Check out the coffee shops and restaurants downtown.

Take a look around. See what cool things are being done.

I have seen friends put flower planters around the city encouraging others to fill them. Guess what? People did.

Forge Flint was created last year by an amazing group of people to bring groups to Flint to fix up homes and the community. Guess what? It has been hugely successful. Lives have been changed.

There are many other groups and people that have been doing things for years to make this community better. Why not join them instead of joining the masses who just talk about change?