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Details.  Close attention to notice what others may miss.  We have all seen the programs with the characters who focus on the details to solve the murder, the mystery, or the case.  Well, in real life, it can actually work the same way.  By taking a page from these leading television actors, one can facilitate living big in a small town!  Simply paying attention to your surroundings or what you normally would dismiss can make a big difference in your role as an active consumer supporting your community!

Each of the five senses is important in noticing detail but what I want to focus on today is sound.  Hearing has had the most impact on creating some truly memorable experiences.  For example, I remember a game of mini-golf being interrupted by an announcement on the loud speaker.  Following said announcement, a radio station promoted its contest for tickets to an acoustic concert for the Goo Goo Dolls and Michelle Branch.  Now, you all know I have a thing for music so I was completely interested in trying to win the contest.  Long story short:  Went to U.S. Cellular for the contest, spun a wheel and won tickets – all because of paying attention to detail! By the way, it was a great acoustic concert!

Months later, I heard an announcement for a talent scout in Kearney, Nebraska on a random Monday night.  Since Monday is a closed day at Lochland, I decided to give impulsivity a try and audition for the talent scout.  All because of hearing something I normally would not, I ended up getting a call back from the talent scout and learning about the Applause Rising Talent Showcase (ARTS), which is an international talent show presented for top professionals in singing, dancing, acting, and modeling industries.  There is more to come on this story, but of course, you know I want you to stay tuned…

Side-stepping for a minute, I do want to say that I have learned through observing and interacting in various relationships that even the littlest of things can be the biggest of things.  What I mean by this is the small acts of kindness, generosity, or affection can mean more than a big gesture (ex. a fancy meal, extravagant gift, etc.).  A minute detail can lead to a bigger effect or greater good, if you will, rather than something outlandish.

That being said, paying closer attention to the details and your surroundings in life could potentially allow for more exciting adventures in life and more memorable experiences.  Even if it turns out to be a negative experience, you will still have the memory and quite a story to tell your friends.  But you never know – it could be a positive experience too.  Until you try, you never know what might come.  Remember, it’s all in the details!

About the author: Josh Wooster

I was born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska, where I attended Millard West High School. I chose Hastings College because it gave students personal attention, extracurricular options, and music ensembles better than those of other colleges in the state. I am currently the leader of 1-2-5, the men’s a-cappella singing ensemble, while also being a part of the Hastings College Choir and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, the men’s music fraternity. Other commitments include being an intern for the Hastings Chamber of Commerce and membership in the Student Environmental Action Coalition and Society for Collegiate Journalists. “Free time” for me involves arranging music for 1-2-5, working at the Lochland Country Club, and searching for a job. I am a jovial spirit with a diligent attitude towards work, and a keen eye for detail. I hope to stick around Hastings after college to work and give back to the city and college that have offered me so much.