How to Know Your Neighbor in Five Easy Steps
Or, C is for Community
My neighbor's been here for about 50 years. I haven't. I'm only 36. We know each other because we attend the same church and work on a neighborhood newsletter together. Otherwise, we might not know each other. She's an elderly retiree, and I'm in my child-rearing years, and unless you have something in common, like school or church, you're not as likely to know your neighbors these days.
Some people attribute this to lack of time; others to the design of our neighborhoods and homes. People travel between home and pretty much everywhere else by car, instead of walking or taking public transportation. People don't even need to leave home if they don't want to. They can have pretty much everything delivered; even groceries, and many people work at home.
Whatever the reason, there are also many people who lament the loss of community, and the fact that we don't know our neighbors any more.
It's hard to even begin to approach the neighbors sometimes. You may never even see them outside the house. If you go knocking on doors, will they think you're weird? Maybe. Are you?
Here are some ideas to help you be proactive in getting to know your neighbors.
1. Sit on the front porch. Like I mentioned, many times neighbors never even see each other outside. So make yourself available! See who wanders by, and say hello.
2. Take a walk. Come on, you know you need the exercise. Again, you're more likely to run into people outside, and even a simple hello gets you started. Get to know the faces around your neighborhood, and maybe some of the names.
3. Work in the yard. What? More exercise? It keeps you outside, where the people will see you! And it gives you something to talk about, too. One day, I was outside working on my front flowerbed, and the next-door neighbor popped out to talk gardening. We're not best friends forever, but we are acquainted now.
4. Go to or hold a neighborhood meeting. I'm lucky. The neighborhood association meets at the church around the corner. I've gotten to know several people on my street by going to the meetings and getting involved in some of the activities.
5. Have a yard sale. If you sell it, they will come, and you'll make some extra money as a bonus.
So who's your neighbor? Go find out!
Published by Kathleen McDade
Kathleen was first published in the school newsletter in fourth grade, and now writes for a variety of publications both on and offline. She blogs about technology, sustainability, and being a mother at tec... View profile
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17 Comments
Post a CommentUhmmmmmmmmmmm..well I had 4 yeard sales,worked on the yard weekly,decorated the yard every Holiday.....after 2 years, IT WAS THE HOLIDAY DECORATIONS THAT DID IT!!! Phew........ finally after giving up in a very nice neighborhood where my spouse resided for 30 years, I for 2 years theres break thru. Majority of the residents are elderly & protected of each other. I started with friendly waves when I did see someone, then followed up with sending a friendly quote & pastries to the few that responded. Now I have a few regular neighbors that accepted me quite well, the key......a lot of patience. The secret, especially if your in it for the long haul & NOT moving NEVER GIVE UP! It is quite worth it, ya get the latest update on the neighbor regarding neighbor ya don't know.
Good Luck Ya'll!! Smile
I just moved into a new apartment, and I'll definitely be taking some of your advice. thanks!
Very good. I sit on my porch every night...alone. Guess it takes time because none of my neighbors ever come out of the houses! LOL.
These are really good suggestions. I don't think things were like this when my parents were young.
Sophie
This is a lovely article and look at all the reader's comments! You struck a good nerve here!
This is a wonderful article. When I was growing up, all the neighbors got together on someone's steps or front porch after dinner with coffee while the kids played. Everyone looked out for everyone else's house,pets, kids etc. It really made for a great neighborhood. You are right, everyone needs to make the effort to get to know each other. Thanks for the great read!
This is an excellent article! I really think you have a lot of great ideas listed here. Thanks for sharing!
Great article Kathleen. I feel it is so important to know your neighbors, especially when you have small children or are elderly. We need to look out for each other when emergencies arise in the area. Children need to know who they can go to if a parent is not available. A neighbor is a wonderful resource. I have been involved with a police program called Neighborhood Watch. I think most people have heard of it but need to get involved with it. It is direct line to the police for emergencies and also the fire department. If you contact your neighborhood precinct they can tell you who to contact to get it started.
Super suggestions and excellent advice; well written and informative.
Nice advice and suggestions. My neighbors take care of everything for us when we are gone. So valuable to know them.