I was reminded of something during a recent visit to a local history center.

Have you ever entered a facility, and immediately felt at home? If you have, you can relate to what I’m going to pass on to you.

As noted, I visited our local history center, and felt at ease. My reason for entering the building was to have a conversation with the center’s director. The reason for the conversation request was to ask some questions about a part of the area’s history. It seems there used to be a ladies school in the city, which lasted for about 50 years, and then burned down.

I visited the old site, and found nothing to remind or inform me that the structure ever existed. There were some foundation stones, but no signage, and that is why I asked to visit with the history center’s director.

Why is there no historical marker recognizing this part of the city’s history? What if an initiative could be started to place a historical marker for this long gone segment of local history?

I had the same feeling entering a local wine store — that sense of being comfortably welcomed. After all, there were many old friends sitting on the shelves, and they all were calling to me. Then, I spied a bottle of Bogle Old Vine Zinfandel. Hey! What if I revisited that old friend? I did so, and was welcomed back to its black cheery/raspberry tastes buttressed by oak and vanilla.

I was greeted like an old friend by the history center’s director, and being a history buff, I felt entirely at home. Our conversation flowed as smoothly as a sip of Guinness Stout — which I enjoyed post visit.

We discussed the lack of historical signage, and it’s my hope our talk will spur some sort of action. Hey! What if we find the ability and resources for a marker? Doesn’t everyone win?

As you may know, much of our country — including our local area — is in a severe drought situation. We badly need some late winter snow or early spring rains. Hey! Whoever is in charge! What if you send us some much needed moisture? Again, everyone would win.

About that before mentioned Guinness, I suddenly realized it had been about a year since having some of that delicious stout. If you enjoy a brew with malty sweetness, a touch of hoppy bitterness along with some chocolate tastes, well, have a pint of Guinness Stout. The leprechauns will dance an Irish jig for you!

What if you took a nice walk through a local park? Hey! You might notice some tulips poking up through the soil. You might see some trees budding. You might meet an old friend and have a new chat. What if you tried a new hobby? It may give you a new outlook on life.

What if we, once again, had civil discourse in our public arena? What if we talked to each other rather than shout at each other? I would be happy to raise a glass with anyone.

What I’ve learned is that one should never be hesitant about beginning a thought with the words: “Hey! What if…”

Try it! May you always be open to the possibilities of newness by asking yourself for a path to a new way to accomplish an endeavor. I believe my conversation with the history center’s director is going to eventually lead to a happy ending, and I’m willing to work for it.