Enjoying the Big Life in a Small Town

Walking in Freedom by Lynn Berna

As I reflect on life in a small town—especially after living through a pandemic—I am reminded how good it feels to be home and living in a free country.

“I will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out your precepts.” —Psalm 119:45

I can’t help but smile when I read another verse that feels just as true today:

“Your faithfulness continues through all generations.” —Psalm 119:90

Front Porch Moments

These days, my husband and I enjoy sitting on the front porch, serenaded by a purple wren, while dreaming about our next date night at Sam and Ethel’s—a nearby restaurant known for its pies. Small, quaint mom-and-pop places have always been my favorite. There’s comfort in them, a sense of belonging that feels timeless.

Growing Up Small-Town Strong

My parents started their own business when I was just four years old, and business conversations were a regular part of supper table talk. A family business has charm, but building one takes hard work.

Dad worked two full-time jobs—one during the day at home and another overnight at Acme Precision in Dayton. Mom worked full-time as a secretary to a CEO while also managing the bookkeeping. For several years, my grandparents lived with us, blessing me with extra love and attention until my parents could rely solely on the business they built together.

A Family Business and a Good Life

The welding shop sat directly behind our home. Over time, Dad expanded it, adding a front room that replaced a large porch with pillars and became a gift shop showcasing ornamental iron pieces. Mom ran the shop and handled the books.

They were a perfect team. Dad loved people and being his own boss, and Custom Way Welding and Ornamental Iron provided our family with a good life.

Small-Town Traditions

Fourth of July fireworks lit up the Little League baseball field, and summer evenings often ended with a walk to the drugstore a few blocks away for an ice cream cone. While some things change in a small town, many remain the same—and that’s something worth appreciating.

Connection in a Changed World

During the pandemic, I became especially aware of who I had beside me. Each evening, my husband and I receive “good night” and “sweet dreams” texts from family in Indiana—sharing stories of picking strawberries, taking walks, building houses, and swimming pools.

They live four hours away, yet it feels like they’re just down the road. The same is true with friends. We have been blessed to experience the very best of what social media can offer.

Grandma to the Rescue

Recently, my friend Becky reached out from South Carolina. Semi-retired, she answered the call when her daughter Stephanie—a nurse and single mom—needed help. With long hospital shifts and homeschooling responsibilities, it was time for Grandma to the rescue.

Becky stepped in, helping run the household and teach her six-year-old grandson, Alex.

“I Am Coming for You, Freedom!”

One day, Becky texted that she and Alex were upstairs in their school area studying American history. She said Alex opened the window, leaned against the screen, and proclaimed to the world below:

“I am coming for you, freedom!”