Happy Valley
It was a strange and unexpected experience.
Suddenly, I found myself in a place called Happy Valley. A man was on a park bench gazing upon the trees as if listening to a particular bird call. I asked him to tell me about this place, this Happy Valley. I was told that for a long time in Happy Valley, the children's laughter could be heard as they played their games. It was one of his greatest joys, he explained.
He went on about how all neighbors were friends and many were kin. The people were content and joyful with their lots in life. He said, “No one lacks any need; they have plenty of shelter, food, and clothing. Their livestock is healthy and strong. Their workplaces are enjoyable and secure. If anyone is grieving, dealing with a tragedy, or unforeseen negative circumstance, the community comes to their aid, immediately.” He was enthusiastic as he relayed how Happy Valley was a place where everyone was treated with dignity and citizens lived in safety without fear.
From that park bench, I heard a citizen of Happy Vally proudly stating it was a place where all social, political, and economic problems were resolved. The people lived in harmony with nature and enjoyed freedom and individualism. Then he added, “The goal of Happy Valley is to remain perfect and continue existing such a wonderful and fulfilling life.”
He was almost giddy as he told me homes were safe, church bells rang, mosques called for daily prayers, synagogues were open, and other religions practiced their faith freely. Love and respect were practiced by caring people. There was no discrimination, bigotry, or hatred shown toward anyone. All nationalities, ethnicities, races, and religions were accepted and protected. Everyone had equal opportunity to live peacefully without fear of abuse, untoward behavior, injustice, harassment, or persecution.
He was particularly pleased with how all levels of academia, from kindergarten to universities, were safe and designed to educate and guide all students in their dreams and aspirations. In cooperation with parents, the schools supported good morals and ethics; they were bastions of hope. Teachers were respected and sensible rules were written to discipline, not just to punish. Yet, disobedience and violence were not tolerated.
The laws of the valley honored and respected human personality. Lawbreakers and lawmakers were held accountable for their actions. Yet, regardless of past injudicious actions, people were given adequate opportunities to change and become productive members of society. Established authority and laws designed to protect and serve the people without discrimination were done dutifully. The democratic values of an orderly community were accepted and treasured.
By this time, my head was spinning. I couldn’t wrap my mind around this idyllic and idealist place known as Happy Valley. I was being persuaded to become one of its citizens. Happy Valley seemed perfect or as near to perfect as any place.
Further, I learned there was little to no discord, distrust, disenfranchisement, or conflict in Happy Valley. Everyone had the opportunity to gain experience and advance to their greatest potential in tranquility and safety. He was adamant that there were no worries, no struggles, and everyone lived in harmony. There was no greed, corruption, or power struggles. Marriages were strong, children were loved, and wholesome family life was paramount.
Happy Valley was so peaceful and calm that I thought about never leaving. A wave of fresh air blew upon me as I sought a shady place to lie back and rest my spiraling mind. There was so much more about Happy Valley that I yearned to know and experience.
I was grateful for such a place where all were free to be all they could become in Happy Valley. Surely, there could never be a place unlike Happy Valley!
I put my head down and took a deep breath. Many thoughts, even questions, were whirling in my head. Indeed, it seemed that Happy Valley had solved all human issues and had all the answers for the best kind of life, but had no questions, or at least very few, about what to do should the citizens realize there was still room for improvement. Was that even possible?
Tomorrow I’ll ask the man in the park about that possibility. Surely, he’ll have an answer.
Suddenly, I heard an alarm clock blaring in my ear. I awoke! My heart was beating rapidly.
I was started and confused. Where am I? Reality began to come into view.
As the cobwebs melted away I realized …
I was back in Wonky Ville.
Copyright ©
David Moore
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