Let’s pause for a minute and think about an important question. What does it mean to be a good neighbor? Our society often doesn’t ask this question because we are so busy doing so many other things. Let’s take a minute though to kick this around. I’d love to hear your comments and stories below.
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Hi Ryan – first of all, congratulations on the site – it is wonderful, and such a fantastic idea and resource.
To answer your question, in my opinion I think what makes someone a good neighbor is simply someone who is a combination letting people know they are present but also being respectful of other people’s space. What I mean by that is that it’s important for us to let people know we’re here – we’re their community, and we’re willing to participate, get to know, or lend a helping hand when needed. But also, that a good neighbor understands that not everyone has the same level of interest in a sense of community. So, if we can show up in our neighborhoods as “open vessels”, we can encourage community but respect privacy.
Whatever the level of interest, I think another thing that makes someone a good neighbor are common courtesies. Smiles, waves, a hello now and then. Simple acknowledgments can go a long way and I think you said it best in your site description up top: “I’ve actually found that the more we get to know neighbors around us, the better it feels to drive home from work back to the neighborhood.” It so true – nothing feels like home than being in a safe and friendly environment.
I’m excited to see all of the discussions that will come up out of your insights, Ryan!
Thanks so much. Wow, Barbara. Your comment really hit the nail on the head. I completely agree. We cannot suffocate people in the name of “community”. On one hand there is so much room to call people to a vision to participate in the community and to step away from an isolated norm in the neighborhood. BUT, there should be no compulsion or sense of pressure for people to be involved. The truth is that some people will never cross that line anyway and others may take months or years to do so. I really like how you mentioned being “open vessels”, but respecting privacy. When is your book coming out?
Awww, you’re too kind! You are so right – sometimes it takes folks a while to come around, and sometimes people tend to err on the side of caution, but those who choose to become a part of a community are usually the ones who stick around for the long haul.
Good thoughts. Barbara, I think it’s often difficult to think outside of a norm of isolation too. It can feel scary to delve in the unknown – even if that unknown is truly wonderful. We might try on clothes fairly easily, but when it comes to ingrained lifestyle choices, that’s something way different.
I’d be curious to hear from anyone that has been invited to some sort of neighborhood event or vision. How did you respond? Were you inspired to action? Annoyed? Bad taste in your mouth? Your two cents please.