Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1184234
A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 9 M A C O N M A G A Z I N E . C O M | 7 9 Deason Art Travis Jean Emporium | Henry's of Bolingbroke Dina Deason dina.crownover@gmail.com • 478.737.8213 • Tu e s t h r o u g h S a t | 1 1 a m - 2 p m & 5 p m - 9 p m ( 9 : 3 0 p m F r i & S a t ) 2 2 4 2 I n g l e s i d e Av e n u e | ( 47 8 ) 7 4 6 - 3 3 3 6 D A I LY S P E C I A L S • L O B S T E R T H U R S D AY S • S AT U R D AY B R U N C H home. I found myself meditating on how I could make a difference. My own words came back to me: True and sustainable change can only be driven from within. As my commitment to the Peace Corps neared an end, I had no idea how my internationally-focused education and experience would serve me domestically, but I knew I had to go home. I knew I had to choose Macon. So much had changed in 10 years. I no longer had family here, few friends, even fewer connections and no resources. But I had a love for the community, a passion for change, a global perspective, a commitment to unity and a church to call home. Every day I spend here, I know I made the right choice – and I am not alone. Yes, many leave to pursue an education and find careers elsewhere, but there are those of us who return – more than you probably realize. We could be anywhere in the world, truly, and we choose Macon. My return to Macon was born out of a conviction that I am necessary, in the same way that you are necessary, to be part of building a community to be proud of – a South to be proud of. Too long has the South been known for conflict and intolerance. Macon can be a place that takes steps to right the wrongs of the past by taking responsibility and giving opportunity; a place that dresses the wounds of the present by listening to understand, accepting fault for mistakes and redirecting actions; a place that promises hope for the future by standing shoulder to shoulder to face the unknown together; a place that I call my home. Macon has room for my ideas, my passion, my love. Macon has room for me; it has room for you. So, tell your story, use your voice, share your heart and love your neighbor. This is our home. Let's make it the best we can. Choose Macon.