Are we better off now than we were 10 years ago?

At the end of a year, and particularly at the end of a decade, it’s prudent to ask the question, “Are we better off now than we were a year ago (or 10 years ago)?”
It’s good to ask the question, because the details and obligations of daily life have a way of distracting us from our intended direction.
The question can apply to personal relationships as well as professional careers and community development. Are we better off now? Are we headed in the right direction?
Every year the Star Herald staff takes stock of a year’s worth of news and looks back on top stories with an eye toward perspective.
A week at a glance or even a month or two often doesn’t create landmark moments, but piecing together stories about ongoing progress or continued controversy paints a picture that offers perspective.
In 2019, as in most years, we suffered our share of tragedies and hardships, but we also had plenty of proud moments that give us reason to feel good about the direction we’re headed. (See the related story http://www.star-herald.com/news/top-news-2019-was-story-didn’t-happen)
A look back on 2010 through 2019 draws comparisons of where we’ve been and where we’re going. http://www.star-herald.com/news/star-herald-ends-decade-look-back-top-ne...
Without giving away those top stories of the decade and editorializing on where we think Rock County is headed, we urge our readers to consider these headlines and make their own assessment of our wellbeing.
Happy New Year, Rock County, and congratulations on another 12 months and another decade of steps in the right direction.