Centennial Reminds Us of Oklahoma's Emerging Future

Last week I had the opportunity to speak at an Oklahoma Centennial reception held at the Old Executive Office Building of the White House. I was joined at the podium by other members of the Oklahoma Congressional delegation as well as key members of the Centennial Commission. As a fifth-generation Oklahoman and a historian, I was honored to be able to share my reflections on the history of the state and pay respect to the extraordinary advances that have been made in the past 100 years. But, while I believe it is entirely appropriate to celebrate the remarkable progress and achievements of our first century, it is also crucial to understand and embrace the changes that must take place to build a great Oklahoma for future generations. Now is the time, in the wake of our celebrations, for citizens to invest in our state and to turn some of the attention away from our history of hardships and instead focus on building a future of opportunities for the second Oklahoma century.

When I was the Oklahoma Secretary of State I had the privilege of serving under Governor Frank Keating. The Governor would often say that he believed we should focus our attention on building an "Oklahoma worthy of Oklahomans." The phrase has stuck with me since that time. I believe that it serves as a poignant reminder that there is still much to be done to make our state great for future Oklahomans. Many good things are already happening statewide and many more opportunities will come our way. Oklahomans are working together with friends, family, churches and civic organizations to better their own communities and their efforts are paying off. Each time an Oklahoman invests in the state, makes the most of its educational opportunities, supports local industries and businesses, or lends a helping hand to a struggling neighbor - another brick is laid in the construction of our state's great future.

Oklahoma is a state of vigor and charm with a heritage that runs as deep as its natural resources. But, what really makes Oklahoma extraordinary is the optimistic nature of its people. Oklahomans are hard-working, sturdy, faithful people who for a hundred years have truly understood what it means to be part of a community. They care about their families and their state and they strive to protect, preserve and embrace the state's rich history and heritage. Oklahoma has seen days of hardship, but during those hard times Oklahomans have prevailed. The spirit of the people of Oklahoma endures and perseveres despite temporal circumstances.

The Centennial is a marker that reminds us of how far we've come, but should also strengthen our resolve to find future opportunities for greatness. This Centennial occasion is hardly a conclusion but rather a starting line, marking a new beginning for change and opportunity. I am convinced that Oklahomans will band together and support each other during this time to create a better and stronger state, so that during our 200 year anniversary, our legacy will shine that much brighter.