Wednesday, October 28, 2009

During this week, when Key West is full of extra people here to party and live it up, let's not forget what makes the Southernmost City so special to all of us who have chosen to be down here on a permanent basis.

Though it may be difficult at times to separate the Key West we know from the added commotion and I'm sure many of us will be downtown partaking in the celebrations, don't forget to keep enjoying the island for what it still is and always will be.

Many of us, I included, forget that the times in between the numerous street festivals and costume parties that Key West has a certain lure that continues to bring the tourists down to our little island, which is ever important to the city's economy. Even during this week, it is still important to keep that island attitude in mind.

It can be easy to curse under your breath at the numerous cars driving well under the speed limit, slowing your progress to work, or to make a nasty gesture to the lost bicyclist trying to figure out where he is staying. But it happens.

The simply overwhelming number of incidents like that can push us to that point, but it's not worth ruining your day or their thoughts of the island over something so trivial. When the streets are packed with cars and mopeds all driving around as if they are lost, don't forget it's because they probably are. So lend them a hand and get them on their way. It will help us all in the long run. Or when the bicycle pulls out in front of you, making you miss the green light, it's because they are more than likely on vacation and didn't see the yellow turn to red. Don't lose your cool. After all, it is only a two-by-four island and it really won't take that much longer to get where you were going.

I know it can be easier said than done, and I'm sure I will find myself in one of these situations or maybe already have, but it's up to us to keep the peace. We know what's going on here. If you see something happening that shouldn't, a friendly bit of advice is always a good way to fix a situation.

Have fun this week, be safe and smart about what you are doing. There is really no need for us to add to the turmoil that will already be taking place. Just remember to continue to keep that smile on your face, wave to your neighbors and help those that need it.

After all, it's our laid back style that has made Key West so great and will continue to impact what happens here in the future.

J.W. Cooke is a Citizen sports writer. He can be reached at 305-292-7777, Ext. 261, or at jwcooke@keysnews.com.