Sharing My Two Cents
I have no idea about the dynamics of a city that I’ve never lived in, but using comparisons with London is refreshing for people. Sharing my two cents.
‘You know more than you care to share. The city you embody influences you more than you can imagine. Everyone can impart knowledge.’
Normally, I don’t advocate for the use of comparisons.
They can be toxic when used to compare human to human.
I used them to compare London to Fort Worth in terms of urban development.
I’ve lived in London for 20 years. I’ve seen change in the urban core, the infrastructure.
I’ve been a silent observer of change.
When people tell me about density growth, urban developments and pains in Fort Worth — it sounds like the problems that Londoners face on the day-to-day.
The key distinction: Fort Worth has more space.
Throughout my trip, I try to impart my knowledge on the most senior of employees.
They have been doing their job for years and travel to other cities.
Sometimes, that fresh perspective can create some questions for those people.
They like to hear that other places are the same.
I’ve talked about this before but, I think it’s important.
I have an age-advantage. They may not listen at first however, by the end, they tend to lead the conversation.
I can say a lot about the city that might be a new perspective or just one from the outside.
I’ve noticed that I’ve formed more genuine relationships with people through being honest on my verdict of the city.
Everyone wants progress.
No-one wants to be compared to cities in the near vicinity.
There are some fine lines and grey areas but, on the whole, most people are for the growth.
I spoke to two arts professionals earlier this week and explained a vision I had come up with for the Trinity River Vision.
It could replicate some aspects of Hyde Park, Southbank.
I shared those thoughts and I was surprised to find that the considerations had not yet transpired.
Even unknowingly repeating the rhetoric of an organisation like the Chamber of Commerce is often met with a large grin and little chuckle.
Speaking of art and away from the topic at hand.
I went to the Museum of Modern Art in Fort Worth today with Zeke and Jordan. Two friends I met at UT.
It was a Japanese-inspired exhibit on show and it was quite ‘out-of-this-world’.
Then we had deep dish Chicago-style pizza.
It was an internationally-infused morning.
I’ve really enjoyed Fort Worth for the balance of the friendly people, seeing friends from UT and being with family.
I’ll miss it.
Luckily, I come back to the USA next March for a module. I won’t come to Texas but, the land of the stars and stripes nonetheless.
This trip has taught me to not be afraid of giving my opinion.
I think very logically about what I say because it may bring value to the recepient.
I like ‘out-the-box’ thinking.
I find it rather intuitive, even if it is mildly controversial.
Sharing my two cents.