Every so often, a story encapsulates where we are as a society in just a few words. Recently, for example:
The local pumpkin patch organizers near City Hall have decided to cancel this year’s event, citing the need to “ensure that evil does not prevail.” In a related observation, a local lawyer abruptly stopped watching football at a local bar because he was fed up with people shouting at him. Furthermore, a once-friendly chef found himself avoiding interactions with neighbors. You might wonder, what led to this rift? A beaver named Butchy.
In Palmer Lake, Colorado, a tiny community of about 2,500 residents has been deeply divided over gas stations. Yes, you read that right—a gas station, though a rather large one. Buc-ee’s, a Texas chain famous for its quirky beaver mascot and pristine restrooms, is planning to build a sprawling 74,000-square-foot travel plaza on a nearby interstate. This proposal is set for a public vote this upcoming winter but has already triggered heated arguments, social media feuds, accusations of vandalism, lawsuits, the removal of the mayor, and the firing of two town board members, not to mention the resignation of a third.
It’s important to acknowledge that differing opinions on projects like this are both fair and normal. Each side is motivated by what they believe is best for the community. Supporters are intrigued by the financial boost from new tax revenue, while opponents express concerns about the potential impact on wildlife and local groundwater.
The real sadness here is the decline of civil dialogue. Former Mayor Paul Olivier expressed his heartbreak over the situation, saying, “People who have been friends for years are now at odds… even families are divided.” For Olivier, this issue hits home, affecting not just his community but his very own daughter and grandson, who oppose the project.
As for me, I enjoy stopping at Buc-ee’s during road trips. But, since I don’t live nearby, it feels a bit presumptuous for me to wade into this debate.
Nonetheless, how this discussion unfolds seems to reflect something larger about our culture. Disagreements are often reduced to personal insults; opponents are depicted in the worst possible light, and civility seems to vanish.
The world could certainly use the principles espoused by the Church, particularly those emphasizing community values. These principles, at their core, revolve around loving relationships. We need to do our utmost to interact with one another in a loving, honest, and compassionate way.
When conflict arises—whether it’s tension, misunderstanding, or stress—it’s essential to tackle these issues directly, within a framework of love. We shouldn’t let dissatisfaction fester; doing so could lead to more significant discord within our communities. As Jesus mentioned in the Gospel of Matthew, if someone sins against you, it’s best to address it personally and honestly (18:15, NIV).
Of course, we can’t expect everyone to be best friends. But we can strive to be loving, compassionate, and loyal. When disagreements happen, we can agree to disagree—and that’s okay.
Some argue Buc-ee’s has torn the community apart, but in reality, it may have been the residents themselves who caused the divide over these beavers.
james emery white
source of information
October 26, 2025
First publication date is November 6, 2025.
