One needs to see what's offered beyond Bonners Ferry

Elders have a responsibility to raise and instruct the younger generation, l but how can the area’s youth learn when a town forgets such duties?

Growing up in Bonners Ferry, I received exceptional wisdom from my mother and father, but their instructions and motivations were never fully supported by the community, who largely projected an under-achieving mentality.

I was always taught to find my place in the world, but the attitude promoted by Bonners Ferry prompts citizens to consider the isolated mountain town the only place in the world.

Don’t get me wrong — Bonners Ferry was a great place to grow up. The intimacy, friendliness and scenery all make the town an ideal incubator, but I am convinced that these factors helped shape who I am today.

But despite the great atmosphere, little can be offered to those who wish to outgrow the small town. There is a time and place for everything.d Bonners is the ideal place to escape the chaos, but there comes a time when one must go out and hear their calling amidst the commotion.

Unfortunately, whether out of fear or simple misunderstanding, the prevailing mindset in my hometown undervalues and underestimates what can be gained for the outside world. Older generations refuse to accept the notion of anyone ever leaving the mountain walls that keep hospitality in and change out.

The general belief seems to be the further one gets from home, the more they stray from their upbringing, when in reality, those who quest for a quality education and world knowledge end up better off than those who never dare to explore the unknown.

I know what I’m stating does not apply to everyone, but you and I both know there are those responsible. However, instead of pointing fingers, allow me to address you with a call to action.

During the last few years I lived in Bonners Ferry, I explored different ideas for what I might do after high school. My mind frequently changed, but I was certain that I needed to learn, not just from a university, but from the world as well. In the end, fueled by the same fear that takes hold of parents unwilling to let go and children hesitant to cross a state line in search of the world, I decided to go to the University of Idaho just to get out.

The college is great, but I was not led here by my ambitions, rather than, by a mindset that values friends and accomplices over feats and accomplishments. Lord willing, I will be able to truly pursue my dreams one day, and they will lead me far from home.

My sincere wish and sober charge to my hometown is this: stop clinging to your adventurous youth. No matter how hard you try to keep them by your side, you cannot stop them from growing up.

Daniel Botkin

Moscow