I was reminded this past weekend of both the importance of community and the effects of lack of community.

All around me, there were signs of how valuable the right community can be for people. Signs of appreciation regarding the community, signs of helpfulness within the community, and signs of togetherness throughout the community.

Not only did I feel a sense of community, but others were talking and writing about it also. It was a week filled with people observing the strength of the community, the benefits, and the disappointments regarding the lack of community.

As I walk through the streets of the community where I live, I feel very blessed, very grateful, and very at home.  Kids are able to ride their bikes to the beach, hang out at the meadow, or play sports with friends, all while knowing that if trouble arises, someone in the community will be there to help.  Others along with myself referred to our community as “Mayberry USA”. In today’s society, it may be one of the closest examples as to what the word community represents.  

Although the community I am writing about is uniquely amazing to those who make an effort to get involved, it is not without flaws.  

Is it difficult to break into established circles of friends?  It can be very difficult, but at the same time, many can walk right in and have immediate acceptance.

Is it odd that we wave to everyone we pass once entering the streets of the community?  For some, that is a very foreign concept.  If you don’t wave to the people you pass, one assumes you don’t live in the community.  

Is it a diverse neighborhood?  There is some diversity, but far less than what I was accustomed to coming from Boston, MA.  I do love that there is a diverse range of values of homes within the community.  The community is not right for everyone, it does have its flaws, but it has so much to offer those who step out of their comfort zone.  

Community is one of the many things we think about when choosing a home.  Does the community’s mission fit your lifestyle?  For most of my adult life, I have been content with gaining a sense of community from my work or through networking.  I have moved over 15 times throughout my adult life and can only think of one neighbor that I knew as a friend and shared a sense of community.  Finding the right community was not a priority in my life until I had children. 

As my needs change regarding community, I rely on my faith to guide me.  I ask for direction through prayer and work through the various alternatives knowing that the best one will surface to the top. I work at focusing on the positive aspects of our community and pray that I will follow my intended path.    

Everywhere I went this past weekend, community was the main focus. The strength of feeling a part of something. A feeling of knowing that someone has your back. To the extent that you know if your child is hurt or misbehaves, they will be appropriately helped or guided in the right direction.  It is the people who carry out the mission of the community.   Finding the right community mission for you and your family is a true blessing.  

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