By HDN staff
It isnt often that the efforts made by individuals get much recognition beyond a pat on the back by a good friend. But really, if it werent for the trials of an ambitious few, it isnt likely that much would ever get accomplished as most ideas are passed off as coffee talk, only to fade during the course of the day.
Last week, the ambition of one man finally got off the ground after nearly two years of hard work. His efforts shouldnt be overlooked, but rather, should be joined by the masses.
Two years ago, John Well-Off-Man had an idea to bring the Hi-Lines Indian and non-Indian communities closer together by building understanding and by breaking down the barriers put up by ignorance and misconceptions. He wanted to make a difference and now hes closer than ever to doing so.
Based on the idea of a foreign exchange program, Well-Off-Man knows that the people of the Rocky Boys Indian Reservation and the city of Havre are worlds apart, even though theyre separated by a mere 30 miles geographically speaking.
He took the idea farther create a project that could be shared by both communities one that, at the same time, will build understanding and promote a two-way appreciation, all while making the areas cultural facility a true center for the arts with a state-wide reputation.
Well-Off-Man will soon launch his cultural exchange and photography program. Students from both Havre and the Rocky Boys Indian Reservation will have the opportunity to learn an art and, at the same time, reveal the unbalance between communities. The results will be captured on film and preserved through the ages, giving people one more chance to see the truth.
The program is believed to be the first of its kind in the country. It will hopefully spread beyond our corner of the state, beyond the states corner of country, and eventually change the way we see the world.
Like most people out to make a difference, his idea is selfless. Well-Off-Man should receive more than a pat on the back. He deserves our help, however we can give it.
