Some proverbial pessimists believe good things always happen to the &uot;other&uot; guy – it’s a miserable way to live. Other people believe in the fanciful notion that good things just fall from the sky – they say ignorance is bliss.

In fact, neither is always true. Most good things in life require work, plain and simple.

Such is the case in life and this week it applies to economic development.

We’ve heard folks talking about the need for economic development in our area for years. Well, an economic opportunity is hanging before us like a plum waiting to be picked.

Nissan North America Inc., is looking for a few (actually more than a few) Mississippi companies to help supply goods and services for its new plant under construction in Canton.

And we’d think a lot of businesses from southwest Mississippi could benefit from the business.

Nissan’s new plant will cost nearly $1 billion and employ up to 4,000 people.

Such a huge operation will need lots of supplies and services. From construction materials and janitorial supplies to copy paper and flowers, the company has made a list of its needs and is asking for businesses to apply to be considered for acceptance.

Sounds simple enough.

The only catch is that time is of the essence. The deadline for applications is Monday.

Local businesses need to decide exactly how determined they are in making the best of the opportunity before them.

Success is all a matter of work. And the first step is showing some interest and going through the application process.