RE-POSTED – Originally posted October 15, 2010
I was born in Memphis. I have moved away twice and returned to live here. The bar-b-q is not the only thing brought me back and will keep me here the rest of my days. Forbes gave Memphis the number 3 spot on its America’s Most Miserable Cities list back in February. This week Forbes rated Memphis #1 among the Country’s Most Dangerous Cities.
So what’s going on here? Is the sheer misery of life overwhelming Memphians? Are we living in a state of anarchy where crime trumps law and order? Are we crazy for choosing to live here? While the suburbanites may smirk at the Forbes stories as they enjoy their lifestyles funded by Memphis’ commerce, most of the folks I know are happy to be in Memphis, many happier than they ever thought they would be. We are in sync with Memphis’ unique culture – the culture of a true melting pot city, with the bonus of southern hospitality and manners. Memphis is a city with a lot to offer.
I am not writing this post as a Convention and Visitors Bureau or Chamber of Commerce piece. The positive, fun, safe, educational, entertainment, and cultural aspects of Memphis life are easy to research.
Imagine being a real estate agent specializing in in-city properties. How would you respond the Forbes stories? How would you sell Memphis to someone relocating or considering moving here? I would love to see your responses. For me a driving tour with lunch at an authentic Memphis bar-b-q spot seems to be the perfect introduction.
photo: Creative Commons Attribution Share-Alike by Marlon Bunday
