When we were kids, few putdowns could demoralize a peer quicker. "Test buster" was handy, and "teacher's pet," but the dreaded barb was "you think you're better than us."

The crime? Acing a test. Pushing yourself harder in wind sprints. Stepping out to participate in a cultural pursuit.

West Virginians are friendly, humble people. Our heritage is hard work, and we take pride in that. Our governor trumpets the oft-repeated claim that our workers are among the most loyal and hard-working. But we're not better than anyone else. That would be a serious crime. And we're very, very skeptical of anyone who seems to think they are above the rest.

Is there a downside to this humility? Only if it's used as a shield against something new, something better. Or as a dart to deflate the balloon of someone striving for excellence. Humility has a harsh double side if it's based on insecurity.

As a growing number of folks champion a "new" economy or the growth of a "creative class" that works in the new economy, the charge of "elitist" sometimes rears its head, usually when the correlation is drawn between education levels and new economy job opportunities. Isn't that elitist?

The word "elitist" is defined by dictionary.com as "the belief that certain persons or members of certain classes or groups deserve favored treatment by virtue of their perceived superiority, as in intellect, social status, or financial resources."

Championing a diverse, vibrant new economy is no more elitist than pointing out the economic benefits of manufacturing or other industries. When West Virginia can generate higher income levels or create job growth, it benefits everyone. New economy industries such as technology, research, engineering, design, education or arts/culture are growing faster and paying more than most other industries in the 21st century. Without a vibrant new economy, all West Virginians will have fewer opportunities.

I suggest a role model for us: Jerry West, one of the top five basketball players who has ever lived, whose competitive drive toward excellence is legendary. He's also humble, someone who never forgets to thank those who helped him and has never forgotten his West Virginia roots.

Perhaps that will be West Virginia's signature in the new economy: pursuit of excellence and the ability to say "It was nothin'," after we make a great scientific breakthrough or start the next Microsoft, right here.

The Herald-Dispatch

No Published Caption

Purchase this photo