In a city where even elected officials are quick to be negative and criticize, there are groups that are working to bring out the positive aspects of the city.

Leadership Selma-Dallas County is one such group.

The program takes participants through a one-year program in which they visit different industries, organizations, schools and even the hospital to get a “behind-the-scenes” look at our city.

Class XIII held its graduation ceremony Tuesday night at the Tally-Ho restaurant.

Jakki Caldwell-Phillips was honored with the Harriet R. Bates Award, given to a class member who serves as an inspiration to others.

The fact of the matter is, the class itself is an inspiration in a city where negativity breeds on itself and we seem quick to see the glass half empty, instead of half full.

Tuesday night, class members shared what they got out of the class – mostly that they knew more about the city, and met some people they wouldn’t have otherwise known.

But, many went a step further in passing a torch – encouraging participants to look over the differences that divide us and instead see people for who they are – God’s children.

Most also conveyed that they believe Selma is a great place. Many have, after all, chosen to move here and raise their families here.

Whatever few differences we have can no doubt be solved by building relationships, like those built through the Leadership Selma classes. (They are now accepting nominees for next year’s class).