When strangers start acting like neighbors, communities are invigorated. -- Consumer advocate Ralph Nader (photo: Mr. Rogers)
I live in a 24-apartment complex in Marin County. I've met people here who have moved to the U.S. from Italy, Mexico, Rumania, Australia, Germany, South Africa, and England. Our small neighborhood is a vivid example of what's often described as the "melting pot" of America. We have animated and often amusing conversations when we encounter each other on the steps or in the community center --otherwise known as the laundry room.
As a writer/editor, I've been surprised at the number of neighbors who are also creatives. Phil was a screenwriter. Randy wrote a business book, and asked me to be the editor. And on Tuesday evening we're going to make the less-than-one-minute trek to Brent, my next-door neighbor's apartment, to share a bottle of wine and talk about his new book and CD. A professional, longtime tennis player and coach, Brent has developed a most interesting educational theory for sports and for life, based on, of all things, non-competitiveness.
Because I've moved an extraordinary amount in my lifetime, it seems that I'm always getting used to new neighbors. However, if I had stayed where I was born, New York City, I might have a completely different attitude. I remember visiting my former in-laws, who lived on the 27th floor of a big, impersonal apartment building in the middle of Manhattan. They were adamant that they didn't want to know their neighbors, were actually proud that they didn't know their neighbors, and certainly didn't want the neighbors to know them, either.
But my attitude is different from that. I'm definitely a Spirited Woman, and I love adventure. Thanks in large part to my Midwestern upbringing, I think I'm a very friendly person, and genuinely curious to know who my neighbors are. I like the idea of neighborhood block parties, and informal neighborhood watch campaigns make me feel more secure. I guess you could say I buy into the whole idea of being a good neighbor. Why not create a pleasant, welcoming atmosphere where you live? You never know what interesting person you'll meet, right in your own building!
What neighborhood stories do you have?
And here's a funny quote about neighbors from that witty actress, Mae West -- Love thy neighbor. And if he happens to be tall, debonair, and devastating, it will be that much easier.
Linda Jay Geldens, www.LindaJayGeldens.com
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