RSSRemember When…….
Jul 06
How well do you know your neighbors? Are you comfortable borrowing milk and eggs from them? Do you exchange pleasantries and know about their lives and families? Or do you know absolutely nothing about them and have no knowledge of them outside of the fact that they have to live in relative proximity to you? In today’s society, it is becoming more evident that the very fabric that made America great has been pulled apart at its proverbial seams. Unfortunately, I am as much to blame as anyone else. Think back to your childhood, if you will, and ponder how things used to be. I can remember all of the neighbors on my block. These were people that you relied on and knew that you could count on in times of crisis. Whether it was the three foot snow emergencies or a death in the family, those that surrounded you became the support system to make it through these times. But, it didn’t have to be just during the bad times. I remember neighbors stopping by to share things from their gardens. People in the neighborhood knew that my dad was an absolute fiend for fresh tomatoes and cucumbers. So, these symbolic offerings were proof that we all knew and cared for each other on a much more intimate level, more so than it being the “neighborly thing to do.” The strength and success of our neighborhood was built on the foundation of understanding, tolerance, acceptance and willingness to be involved. The symbolic offerings from one neighbor were reciprocated when someone needed a ride to work or a drive needed shoveled. I could never understand why my parents would not allow me to accept money for things that I did for those around us. I now do. The acceptance of money meant that the dynamics of the relationship changed. It meant that the offerings were now no longer symbolic. I believe that that focus has been lost in our communities. We are no longer as trusting and willing to engage in anything in our neighborhood. The fabric has shredded when it is most needed. In these times of crisis of increasing unemployment, catastrophic disease, and governmental division, we have lost sight of what has always helped define the strength and power of this nation. We have lost our neighbors. Don’t get me wrong. They are still there. We have built a culture of self-reliance and self-sufficiency that has allowed us to shift our focus. We can make it through this. History has shown that our nation is one of great resilience. But, we have always done it together. Let’s revisit our neighbor. Let’s learn to trust, support and give. Let’s show everyone that we can do it. And, finally, I’ll leave you with this question…….. In the immortal words of Mr. Roger’s…… Won’t you be my neighbor?