Cultural Diversity in Blythe

For a small town far removed from the mainstream of Southern California, Blythe offers tremendous diversity – socially, economically, racially, and ethnically.

I was born and lived in the south where it was black or white, rich or poor.

I ministered in southern Louisiana where those differences were joined by Catholic vs. protestant and Cajun vs. non-Cajun.

Here in Blythe my wife and I have been blessed by relationships with such a diverse group of people – Hispanics, Koreans, Blacks, and Caucasians from so many places.

As a southern journalist who covered much of the racial unrest of the 1960s I had some understanding of the struggles of blacks and whites. But I had no concept of the problems Hispanics have faced over the years.

Our time here has been a wonderful education in the Hispanic culture. To which I can only say, “Wow.” And “thanks!”

Shirley, my wife, has had a special impact on the community through her work at the Sheltering Wings Thrift Store. Her caring heart and penchant for remembering names has torn down walls of division for many people here. God is pleased when we actively love and accept people despite differences.