What are the People Like in YOUR Town?

"Be the change you wish to see in the world."
                                               – Mahatma Gandhi

In today’s world, many of us feel the weight of a society that seems more divided than ever. Anger, frustration, and resentment are ever-present, often sparked by the simple fact that others don’t see the world the way we do. These emotions fuel our daily lives, amplified by the relentless flow of headlines and social media posts.

So much of our frustration stems from wanting others to act, speak, or think like we do. At the very least, we hope they’ll listen to us with openness and empathy. But here's the question: Are we willing to do the same?

This question reminds me of a story that I hold close to my heart, one that speaks to the power of our own mindset and presence.

A young man, fresh to a new town where he knows no one, strolls down the street. As he passes a weathered old man sitting on a rocking chair outside the general store, he asks, “Hey, I’m new here—what are the people like in this town?”

The old man looks at him and replies, “What were the people like in your old town?”

“Well,” says the young man, “they were mean, dishonest, and would cheat you at every turn.”

The old man nods and says, “That’s probably what you’ll find here.”

Later that day, another young man, also new to the town, walks by and asks the same question. “Excuse me, sir, I’m new in town—what are the people like here?”

The old man asks again, “What were the people like in your old town?”

“Oh, they were kind, thoughtful, and always ready to lend a hand,” the young man replies.

With a smile, the old man responds, “That’s probably what you’ll find here.

”

I’ve always loved this story because it so beautifully captures how our energy, our perspective, and the way we show up in the world profoundly shape the experiences we have and the people we attract into our lives.

It’s a simple but powerful truth: what we give to the world, we often get back.

This brings me back to a moment of reflection during a trip I took several years ago to visit my son, Jason, in Ireland. He was completing his master’s degree in film at the National University of Ireland, Galway, and I couldn’t have been more proud of the way he grew—not just as a student but as a human being.

While there, I had the opportunity to meet some incredible people—his roommates, his classmates, his former landlords, and even his Dodgeball teammates (where I had the honor of being on the receiving end of several well-aimed dodgeballs… Jason’s idea of fun 😊).

But what struck me most wasn’t just the kindness of the people I met. It was the realization that Jason had played an active role in creating the community he was surrounded by. Through his positive energy, openness, and the way he showed up as a friend and human being, he attracted a group of wonderful people into his life.

This wasn’t by accident—it was the result of his consistent choice to be a certain way. He embodied kindness, respect, and compassion, and the universe reflected that energy back to him.

That experience made me reflect on my own life. How am I showing up in the world? Am I truly giving the energy, kindness, and attention that I hope to receive?

Am I taking time to truly connect with others—whether they’re close family, old friends, or even strangers? Am I listening—not just hearing, but really listening—to others, especially those with whom I might not agree? Can I approach even difficult conversations with an open heart, honoring and respecting others’ perspectives?

The way we show up in the world influences the world that shows up for us. So, I ask you to consider: What are the people like in your town?

This week, I invite you to challenge yourself. Make a conscious effort to connect with people, to listen deeply, and to offer empathy and appreciation. Be the type of person you want reflected back to you.

And in doing so, you just might find that the world around you shifts in remarkable ways.

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Chris Natzke
Black Belt Leadership Speaking & Coaching