Gems amid the discord

From Act V to the skate park to Design Review Board to hedges and

trees -- oh those trees -- there’s plenty to get riled up about.

But all the while, through all the council meetings, review board

processes and letter writing, it would be hard to find a Lagunan who

isn’t thankful for what they have.

There’s nothing wrong with striving for more, even striving for

perfection, but the ability to stop and consider all that we have is

key, something to pass on to the kids.

It goes something like this: “Durn that tree!!!! Right in the

middle of my view. But oh, isn’t it a treat to be able to take a

stroll down to the beach any day.”

And: “I can’t believe the new neighbors are adding 500-square-feet

to their home on our quaint little block. But oh, isn’t it refreshing

to be able to let the kids go out and play without the dread of

drive-by shootings or much fear of danger lurking nearby.”

‘Tis the season to take special time to reflect on our treasures

-- bask in the beauty of our surroundings, the tightness of the

community, the knowledge that on Thanksgiving there will be potlucks

and dinners for all to enjoy.

At the Coastline we’re thankful to be able to cover a city full of

people who read the papers, care about the news as well as the arts

and get involved. What a treat, all year long.