A New Vision for Greenfield: Embracing Change in the 21st Century
As I reflect on my first day of college, I recall a sociology professor sharing his insights on the inevitability of change and the transfer of power from one generation to the next. According to him, my generation would soon inherit the earth, and with it, the responsibility of shaping the future. Writing in the Recorder, Amhad Esfahani, a resident of Greenfield, echoes this sentiment, calling for a new wave of development and growth in the town.
In his article, "My Turn-Esfahani" published in the Recorder, Esfahani reminisces about the professor’s words, which have stuck with him to this day. The professor had predicted that the baby boomer generation’s retirement and eventual relinquishing of power would coincide with the emergence of a new generation of leaders. This transfer of power would bring about significant changes in society, driven by the unique experiences and perspectives of the younger generation. As Esfahani notes, "Large birth rates leading to expansion, expansion leading to shift, shift leading to.. .who knows what."
A Snapshot of Greenfield’s Current State
Esfahani paints a vivid picture of Greenfield’s current state, where remnants of 20th-century culture and politics still linger. The town’s streets echo with "classic" songs from a bygone era, and the local landscape is characterised by a sense of stagnation. While the people are friendly and hard-working, the town lacks a sense of vibrancy and excitement, with few activities that don’t require intoxication. This is a far cry from the thriving community that Esfahani envisions for Greenfield.
A Vision for a 21st-Century Greenfield
Imagine Greenfield as a hub along an extensive passenger rail system, similar to those found in Europe. This vision, as proposed by Esfahani, would require significant investment and development, but could potentially transform the town into a thriving and youthful community. The state of Massachusetts has laid some groundwork for development, but the real challenge lies in overcoming the obstacles posed by existing policies and attitudes. As Esfahani notes, "Standing between 21st century development and the Green Wave is the hard-won policies of the last 50 years. Zoning, planning, conservation are only but three faces of the many-headed Hydra which would prefer western Massachusetts remain how it looked on the brochure."
The Need for a New Approach
Esfahani argues that the baby boomer generation’s "my way or the highway" philosophy is no longer relevant, and that a new ethos of "greater good" and "communal ownership" is needed. This requires a shift in mindset, from individualism and self-enhancement to a focus on the collective good. As he notes, "Individualism and self-enhancement had their time, but now the ethos of ‘greater good’ and ‘communal ownership’ have waited in line long enough." The Recorder’s article highlights the need for a new approach to development and growth in Greenfield, one that balances the needs of the community with the demands of the 21st century.
A Glimmer of Hope
Esfahani remains optimistic about the future, citing the efforts of elected officials and enterprising engineers who are working to bring about change. The possibility of a high-speed rail from Greenfield to Boston, for example, could be a game-changer for the town. As he concludes, "For those who dream of a 21st century Greenfield, all you have to do is imagine … and wait." The article, as published in the Recorder, provides a thought-provoking analysis of the challenges and opportunities facing Greenfield, and serves as a call to action for residents and leaders alike.
In conclusion, Esfahani’s article in the Recorder serves as a timely reminder of the need for change and growth in Greenfield. By embracing a new vision for the town, one that prioritises the collective good and balances the needs of the community with the demands of the 21st century, Greenfield can become a thriving and youthful community. As Esfahani so eloquently puts it, "Imagine … and wait."
Source:
My Turn-Esfahani – Amhad Esfahani, The Recorder.
