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DAVID BENTLEY'S COLUMN

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FAIR REFLECTIONS

The San Juan County Fair is an amazing event. Many people work all year planning and preparing their entries, and hoping to win ribbons. Some create an entry at the last minute, just to qualify for an exhibitor's pass. Others simply pay full price to get in and enjoy the fun. However there is more to our remarkable little fair than entering exhibits and winning ribbons.

Many people go to the fair each day to visit with friends, look at exhibits, watch livestock events or attend demonstrations. Folks drop by the fair to eat during their lunch hour. They return after work for supper and some entertainment. Island kids, who have spent all summer earning money, spend much of it on rides, games, toys and treats.

An espresso stand sits between the organic salad booth and the homemade pie shed. Crepes and egg rolls are sold in the midst of chili dogs, curlicue fries, burritos, and locally made ice cream. Meanwhile, strains of country & western music follow traditional Chinese songs on one stage, and mix with the sounds of jazz and rock from other venues.

Creativity and talent are seen in exhibits and presentations, as well as resourceful booth designs. Politicians, farmers, ranchers, musicians, artists, artisans, cooks, massage therapists, educators, and salespersons all vie for attention from those passing by.

The general excitement can energize and exhaust, while midway rides exhilarate and terrify. People dance in front of a band on one side of the grounds, as others quietly meditate behind the barns. Organized competitions bring smiles of victory to some, while others walk away with down-turned mouths. The sounds of laughter mix with screams of delight, impatient voices, and the wailing of worn out babies.

Just like a mirror, the San Juan County Fair reflects island life for all of us to view.

  • What did you learn from looking at the "mirror" this year?

  • Was there anything that surprised you?

  • Are there aspects you'd like to see change before next year?

  • What steps will you take to bring about those changes?

© 2002 David Bentley

David Bentley, M.Ed. & Personal Coach, coaches clients through the game of life, helping them find balance, clarity of direction, and purpose in an ever-changing world.

He can be reached by phone at 360.378.8436

by e-mail at david@coachbentley.com

or visit his Web site: www.coachbentley.com

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