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Many of our relationships can be fleeting or do not deepen past a superficial
level, yet these connections, as trivial as they can seem, often have the
potential to grow into something much more essential. When we crave
community, we should focus our attention on these casual acquaintances. To
forge a bond with neighbors, we need to work together with them so that we
have a context from which to begin a more mature relationship. Sharing tasks
that are part of living can be a wonderful way to become a part of a larger
community, make new friends, and lighten the workloads of everyone involved.
Creating a network of neighbors who agree to pool certain resources and share
daily duties can be as easy as taking the initiative. If you are willing to
take the first step by reaching out to the individuals and families who share
your building or your street, you will likely find that others are receptive
to the notion. Starting small, with just a few people, can help you
orchestrate a smoothly running system. Together, you will need to decide what
chores you want to do communally and what resources can be shared. Ideas for
community sharing are child care, errands, housework, keeping a joint garden,
cooking for the group, and carpooling. For instance, if you cook large meals
for four neighbors once a week, you take off four nights after that. As you
grow to trust one another, you can begin adding new members to your evolving
network or introducing new tasks to your shared roster of duties.
Actions speak louder than words, so working closely with neighbors to ensure
the well-being of the group can be a wonderful way to build a sense of
community in your locale. Not everyone you approach will be open to the idea
of becoming a part of a network of sharing. As you connect with those who do
appreciate the merits of such a system, you will discover that others are
just as eager as you are to create interpersonal connections that are defined
by substance.
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