Longview, Texas and rednecks.

[calvin9495]

Originally Posted by Obsidian Flow

First, I would like to clarify that I have had friends in the upper, middle and lower classes in Longview. I do not have animosity towards any of them. I am merely stating my perspective of the dynamics within the Longview community.

Having been born and raised in Longview, there are MANY things I could comment on. I love the trees. I love the trees. Did I mention, I love the trees. That is where it ends. If one is looking to enlighten themselves on a different way of life, Longview is an excellent study. Although there is some growth in businesses, the people seem stagnant. This is a town/city filled with old family names that remain. They have their way of life, and yes, their cliques. These cliques reach far into Longview's history. There is a distinct upper class, middle class, lower class, and yes, even lower than lower class. There seems to be an acceptable way of life for each class. There is a level of conformity expected within each class. Sure, we could say that of many places in the US, but to the degree I witnessed in Longview is what defines this town.

The problems associated with gaining acceptance from other women is an old one found in many small towns. There is something to be understood about a large population of the women in Longview. Trying to fit in is like engaging in an arena of competition. You are segregated by your household income, where you live, your family name, the church you attend, who you know, the handbag you carry and the clothes you wear. Sporting an "I'm better than you" attitude gives many a sense of moving up in the ranks at the expense of others. The hardest areas to penetrate are the women that come from generations of living in the Longview area.

As with anything, there are exceptions to the rule, and some very nice people can be met, with a willingness to befriend you, seemingly blind to the social barriers.

I cringe at the thought of what I would have become, or would not have become if I had remained there. A vast number seem to be oblivious to a life outside the Longview world. This statement is true of all the classes. It's very interesting.

I realize some of my comments are vague. It's is difficult to place few words to 20 years of experience. I have now had another 20 years outside of Longview, with visits to family and friends that remain there. They are still the same.
I have a sibling that has moved away, as I did. This sibling and I equally shake our heads at the bullet we dodged.

What an eloquent post. I completely agree with you. My husband and I have entertained the idea of moving back to Longview on occasion, but the thing that keeps us from acting on it is exactly what you discussed. I love many of the neighborhoods because of the trees, and the size of the town is great---not too big, not too small. But every time we return from a visit to see our families, it is glaringly obvious that we have outgrown some of the mindsets that still prevail. Too bad, because it is a pretty town with so much potential.