North America is a one of the largest continents in the world. Between the US and Canada, the land is full with a diverse and vibrant population. Inside each state and province are smaller cities, towns and boroughs where we feel safe, welcome and at home. What makes your hometown special, unique and the place where you set down roots and nourish them to grow deep and strong?
The Open Door Policy
I grew up in a mid-sized city in Pennsylvania where everyone in the neighborhood knew each other. It was common to leave the front or side door open so kids could come over, mothers could visit and fathers could borrow each other’s tools. We trusted each other back then. Children shared the same bus stop and huddled together against the cold air or rain. Those who lived farthest from the bus stop were invited in to homes to stay warm and dry until the bus came.
Today, even in smaller communities, no one knows their neighbors. We go to work, come home and close the door. We guard our privacy like the gold at Fort Knox. Yet we post almost every detail of our life on social media sites. And we still do not know who lives two doors down. It is time Americans step outside, knock on a neighboring door and introduce ourselves. These are the people who can help when help is needed. These are the people who will watch your home when you are away. These are the people whose walls and yards we share. We are all bonded by the community where we live and the neighborhoods where we spend most of our time. Communities of Distinction explores the strongest neighborhoods, the most colorful cities and the tiniest of towns.
Stirring the Pot
The city where I spent my youth had a lot to offer for everyone. There were parks, public swimming pools, baseball fields and playgrounds. There was a county museum which hosted cool activities for kids. There were historic forts where kids could run free on school or family trips and make believe we were fighting a war. We grew up understanding what made America and who fought for it. The city was divided by school townships and many of us had friends who did not go to our school. Some of us were bussed clear across town for classes. Others walked across the street. We learned everything we needed to graduate and go on to college, or join the military, or stay home and work in a family business.
Some of us grew up in middle class neighborhoods, some on farms, and some in city tenements. We were from many ethnic backgrounds: Polish, Greek, German and Italian for the most part. But we knew each other, liked each other and respected the other’s background. Sure there were disagreements and even fist fights. But in the end, we were friends. We had different likes and dislikes and learned to appreciate the other person. We went to different churches. Our homes were nothing alike on the outside and inside. But we shared the common bond of neighbors. This is what makes neighborhoods strong. What makes us different makes us interesting and provides a valuable learning experience for the children of today. Step outside and knock on your neighbor’s door. Introduce yourself if you do not know them and start to plan a community get together. America and Canada are huge countries where communities are growing and becoming the center of the world we live. Stir the neighborhood or community melting pot and enjoy the many different people who make it is rich.