Arkansas residents are tough. There’s a lot that we can do without when it’s important. Then again, there are some things that we Arkansans have gotten so used to that it’d take everything in anyone’s power to make us forget what we love so much about the Natural State. This rundown of a dozen key items is definitely a life necessity for Arkansans.
11. The culture
We love to brag on the diversity of Arkansas. Besides the excellent food, the racial makeup of the state comes in as a worthwhile point to prove. Arkansas isn't all made up of one type of mindset these days. There are a multitude of different ways of life to study.
10. The music
Arkansas without music would be a life less interesting. From folk to rap, Arkansas has an interesting blend of musicians and entertainers who have made their mark on their genres. There's a great wealth of sound here in the Natural State that we residents would be lost without.
9. The automobile
It's true. You need a car to get to all the great places in Arkansas. Especially to get to the less-traveled paths, an automobile (preferably in proper shape) is required to have a good time.
8. The nature
Simply put, the Natural State couldn't be without the nature provided by the state itself and preserved in state parks. Along with the state parks, Arkansans get to enjoy natural beauty if you're fortunate enough to live in a rural area that has enough green space to feature the change of the seasons.
7. The concerts
Festivals are one thing; they focus on arts, crafts, and entertainment. Arkansas concerts are amazing because it's all about the music. Whether it's a band you know or a musician/band that performs its songs in the most natural and folksy of ways at a park or in the River Market, Arkansas concerts are worth watching. Be sure to support local music!
6. The sports
Woo Pig Sooie! Sometimes I think all that holds our great state together would be the strong fiber of the Arkansas Razorback Nation. Sports binds many of our state's residents together. The state would definitely be missing out if we never had the Hogs to support.
5. The independent spirit
Arkansas is a diverse place, and yet all of the people here maintain their own sense of individuality. There's never just one type of Arkansan. We have all walks of life here. It's a wonderful spirit around here that surprises out-of-towners who bought into the silly state stereotypes--until they actually visit Arkansas.
4. The security
Too many states make headlines these days for disrespecting police authority. There's a reason you don't see a lot of Arkansans protesting our police forces. So many officers work so hard to protect us here. Our state would be a lot different (and much worse) if we didn't have the law enforcement we have today.
3. The peace
Everybody wants to find a little tranquility, and in Arkansas we don't have to look far for peace. We have miles of quiet and scenic forests and hills where you'll climb up, take a seat, look at the world, and forget about your troubles for a while.
2. The festivals
Arkansas loves its festivals! Whether it's Riverfest, Timberfest, Toad Suck Daze, the Wye Mountain Daffodil Festival, the Hope Watermelon Festival, or the numerous other festivals held annually around the state, you're bound to have a good time. You'll likely also be back for more fun the following year.
1. The food
You can't go very long without food anyway, so why not celebrate the fact that you have plenty of it? Arkansas residents could surely get by on the meals they serve in other states. We wouldn't want to, though. Whatever they've got on the menu anywhere else doesn't compare to what you'll find in the kitchens and restaurants here.
Now that we know what we can’t live without when it comes to Araknsas, we should think of the way things would be if we were ever to lose our 21st century techniques. We’d have to revert to the “timing and luck” method of baking. High school students wouldn’t have anything to rally behind unless there’s a definitive campus team with a mascot. How boring would life be without our great prices, our awesome scenery, and our fun festivals? I definitely couldn’t last very long without many of the luxuries Arkansas provides – sound off in the comments about how you feel!
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