I began writing So Worcester, It Hurts with the encouragement of Jonnie Coutu and the support of Blank Canvas Magazine. I wrote with the hope of some cathartic release of angst about my hometown. I regret that intention now because I’ve learned that good writing demands a cool head and that I will always have angst about my home town. No matter how explosive the catharsis.

Instead I want to share with you some of the things I’ve learned about Worcester in my roughly 30 years of living here. There is great history in this region, in its abandoned mythology and in the ruins of old homes and factories. We can help each other learn what life was like for the people who lived here before and perhaps set  the scene for those that come next.

The past is palpable and it  is not uncommon for natives to actively refer to businesses and buildings that have long since crumbled or changed names. I will try to be careful not to fall victim to nostalgia and intend to keep focus on the “future perfect”. That is, I will investigate the next thing. I will try  to report on what is being done in the city. Where we are growing and where we are going (in what direction and speed.)

Much has changed in Worcester since September 2008. Much has changed in me, to my family and friends. More changes are coming fast, right around the corner. What becomes of Worcester now -whether we stall as a city and backslide into decline, or whether we stand our ground as a land and people who demand respect and produce results- is to be determined by those who call this city home.

Become a part of the the movement by spreading the word, share with so worcester, it hurts the stories that define what the city means to you and tell the world just how Worcester you are.

Please talk with us and tell us about your Worcester…we are always interested in stories born somewhere East of Springfield and West of Boston.