I may have fond memories, yes, but what about the fact that both Sacramento and neighboring Placer County are two of the fastest growing counties in population in California? What about all the displaced wildlife? What about the uncontrolled expansion? Do we really need 18 Target stores in three cities? Do we really need to double the size of the brand new mall? My heart is pulled back to the Arcata Plaza and being so proud of living in the first municipality to ban the growth of any Genetically Modified Organism within city limits. It is the first US city to elect the majority of its city council members from the Green Party. I almost miss the lively discussion over the Humboldt State University entrance sign and whether it’s socially responsible or appropriate.
But I suppose that’s where I must stay for now. I am in the middle of an ironic spectrum, a true moderate with fond memories of an ever-growing city and new beliefs from a stagnant town. I finally arrive in Fair Oaks. A drive down Sunset Avenue and a turn on Isabella Avenue will find me at home. With a warm bed to sleep in and a family waiting, I arrive. But my journey isn’t over yet.
The journey is just as important as the destination when getting from Arcata to Sacramento, or from Sacramento to Arcata. That’s where I am, in the middle of that journey. I’ll find my way between the balance, growth and change of all the cities in life, eventually.
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