Honoring The Wimberley Way

Just before the FEMA folks left town after the Memorial Day flood, they mentioned to me (and to others) that Wimberley is the most resilient community they’d ever encountered in their decades of experience. Ever since, I’ve been asking Wimberleyites why that would be true. Many site a welcoming people, a pioneering spirit, faith, arts and music, a service ethic, and the pristine nature we enjoy. What I personally cherish is the way we gather and celebrate with fun, food and fellowship. Whether it’s the Butterfly Festival, the library, Wimberley Valley Radio, the Corral Theatre, Wimberley Nights at the Blue Hole, the Wine Walk, Market Days, the We Believe Women’s Conference, visiting historic houses or the Wimberley Pie Social. This tradition dates back to Wimberley’s early days. Here’s a quote from the late Bill Johnson’s book, “Vox Pop”: Remembering Parks Johnson. The quote illustrates how his parents embodied the practice of fun, food and fellowship.

“Welcoming newcomers to the community was Parks and Louise’s joy. Newcomers were often invited for food, a swim, good conversation and always – to go to church. Helping people find their nitch in the village was such fun for them. And I know our Lord enjoyed knowing His rules were being followed by this couple, Parks and Louise Johnson.”

As we interact with our neighbors on challenges, I encourage all of us to reflect on one question. “Does my behavior encourage fun, food and fellowship?” The more we can each say “yes it does”, the brighter Wimberley’s future will be for future generations.

Stephanie Nestlerode