3 minute read
Will the Real Neighbors Please Stand Up?
The planning is almost over. It is nearly time for residents to begin hosting parties and doing good deeds for their neighbors as part of National Good Neighbor Day on Sept. 28.
By the time you read this article, some neighbors will be setting up a canopy in the yard, firing up the grill, and hosting block parties for their nearest neighbors.
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With all the rush of summer and a new school year underway, this is a good time of year to ask (with a tip of the hat to the old television game show, To Tell The Truth), will the real neighbors please stand up?
A real neighbor understands the importance of helping out when needed, sharing a cup of sugar when asked, and happily lending a strong back or a listening ear.
A real neighbor is the one with a fire pit in their backyard and a willingness to share the experience with the people that live closest to them.
A real neighbor is willing to share a conversation or a tear over a freshly brewed cup of coffee (or hot chocolate). A real neighbor finds joy investing in those around them and takes the time to learn and use the names of those that live near them.
A real neighbor is giving and performs good deeds without being prompted. Real neighbors know a smile and a wave, and knowing names can go a long way toward building a relationship.
A real neighbor keeps a tidy home and lawn. They mow on a regular basis and maintain their yard. They remove clutter from the yard at the end of the day.
A real neighbor knows the importance of being a quiet neighbor. They don’t mow their lawn at seven in the morning, don’t honk their horn every time they pull into the driveway, keep their music down past 9 p.m. -you get the gist.
Real neighbors understand the importance of being welcoming while also respecting an individual’s privacy and personal space.
Neighboring is an opportunity to be thankful for those living nearest us, a chance to be a blessing or generous, and an opportunity also to receive.
Being a kind and engaged neighbor can bring out the best in all of us. The good that resides in humankind bubbles up when neighbors form mutual relationships of help and support and kindness and understanding.
A real neighbor lives out the advice to “love your neighbor” every day.
A real neighbor could make National Good Neighbor Day a time of fun and excitement, but they also know that being an engaged neighbor requires attention for more than just one week or one special day a year.
This year more than others, we need to be reminded that good neighbors help to create good neighborhoods and vibrant communities. We are reminded that to have good neighbors, you first have to become a good neighbor yourself. If you want a friendlier neighborhood or community, you begin by being the change you want to see.
We need real neighbors and what they can do for us. Here is hoping your family experiences a real neighbor relationship during National Good Neighbor Week and discovers love, kindness and friendship right next door.
David Burton
County Engagement Specialist burtond@missouri.edu Direct Tel: 874-2954 Started: 2001 Responsibilities: Leadership development, neighboring, heritage tourism, media relations, and works with council to fund and administer local programs.
