Forming new communities from the remnants of old

Entering the old General Dynamics building in East Camden, I was surprised at how well the building is holding up. I am glad it is being taken care of and used some while it sits waiting for the next industry to make a home.

I was there for the dog show, setting up a booth to provide state literature to those attending. Several trips up and down the hallway later, I found myself wondering about the workers that had used the hallways.

The building has been empty for many years now. There is a large room that must have been the cafeteria. I wondered about the secrets shared, breaks taken and hurried conversations. I thought about the fellowship, happy news rejoiced, funny stories, gossip, good-natured kidding and even prayer requests. There was also sad news given, I imagine. Romances, both innocent and forbidden, were started. Friendships began, and I’m sure a few ended there.

A community was there, walking those halls, using those rooms. There were friends, enemies and acquaintances in that community. They mourned the death of workmates together, wished each other the best in marriages and divorces; and celebrated the births of sons and daughters.

Families depended on the jobs in that building and one day, those jobs were gone. Some transferred to other areas while others may not have been so lucky. Some have probably left this earth while others have stayed in touch. Some went to work together at other jobs, allowing their friendships to flourish. Some have never seen each other again.

The parking area is very large there. I thought of the former employees arriving early, those looking for the best spot, and those forever screeching in at the last minute. There were new cars shown off while other cars were accidentally dented, and of course, shared rides. All kinds of music played there, weekend plans were finalized there and final goodbyes were said in that parking lot.

On the second day of the dog show, I recognized people from the day before and realized that a new community had been created there in one day. People were smiling and nodding at each other and conversations were happening, just as they did when the building was up and running daily. Friends were being made, others were not clicking. But nonetheless, a community had formed. New friends were wishing each other safe trips home in the rain; old friends were hugging goodbye. I was enjoyed watching it unfold, living in the moment.

Maybe someday someone will decide to occupy the building again and jobs will be created there, and another community can come alive.

I wish this not only for East Camden but for all the Arkansas’ South region. El Dorado’s Murphy Arts District is an example of how a new community is formed. We are all invited to join in the positivity that is being created there. Let’s use that positivity to think about these old buildings and ask God to bring new, great-paying jobs to fill these empty buildings, or build new ones.

Churches are communities. It would be good if all churches pray in earnest for new jobs for South Arkansas. It would be good indeed.

Share your memories with me of long ago friendships from lost communities at brendastuddardclark@gmail.com, if you wish. I love to hear from those writing from the heart about things that matter.

Brenda Clark may be reached at brendastuddardclark@gmail.com.