Whether you know it or not, you have the power to influence our economy in the next few weeks.

Today, Natchez’s Spring Pilgrimage kicks off, and we hope you will play a role in helping the area’s single biggest tourism draw a great one.

The annual tour of antebellum mansions attracts people from all over the world. Visitors come to learn about history of the people and places that make our community one of the most unique places in the nation.

As the pilgrimage season kicks off, we hope the azaleas will be in full bloom and beautiful spring weather will help draw tourists to the area. We also hope visitors to the area will leave with an experience worth tweeting, texting and raving about with friends and family on social media and beyond.

That is where you come in.

Your smile, helpful directions and generous hospitality can make or break the guest experience.

Natchez is only as good as the reputation tourists take with them. That reputation depends on the community members that visitors meet throughout the day.

If just a few disatisified guests share poor experiences or bad impressions — in real time or on social media — it can drive away many more potential visitors.

Pilgrimage is one of several large events throughout the year that drive the tourism economy for our community. The dollars that come from outside our community are always welcome.

So over the next few weeks, make a point to smile more and reach out to people who appear lost or in need of help.

After all, we all can play a role in attracting tourists and tourist dollars to the area.