Sometimes a different perspective can really help you realize that you are truly blessed.

Earlier this week, I had the opportunity to chat with a group of tourists from Great Britain, who had decided to visit the South. In addition to seeing the civil rights museum in Montgomery and the French Quarter of New Orleans, they also took a small detour on their trip to come see Atmore. The reason — they wanted to experience small-town Southern hospitality for their very own (and have a nice coffee break).

I’m happy to say that Kerra Mascaro and her crew at The Coffee House definitely delivered that hospitality in spades. Everyone who I talked with was not only impressed by Kerra’s business, but also by the friendliness and atmosphere of downtown Atmore in general.

“Everyone we met has been extremely friendly,” one of them said. “We visit the South often and we always enjoy it because the people are so nice and welcoming,” said another.

Certainly our city is not perfect, and what community is? But listening to those British tourists, it’s also clear that we have a lot going for us in Atmore. Sometimes it’s important to take a step back and let someone else give you a different viewpoint.

• And one of the great things that Atmore has going for it are the community festivals that fill the calendar. One of those festivals is coming up this Thursday, and I hope to see everyone there.

The “Taste of the South” is Thursday, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Heritage Park in downtown Atmore. Tickets are $10 for a sample of five tastes, and don’t worry if you don’t have a ticket yet — they’ll be available at the entrance.

There’s sure to be something for every person’s tastebuds and palate, so I encourage everyone to come out and see the culinary talent that we have right here in Atmore. Be sure to come with a healthy appetite!

Thanks for reading The Atmore Advance.