Won't You Be My Neighbor

Your neighbor might be slipping through the cracks.

What I mean to say is that, 1) your neighbor might really need a friend or a helping hand, and 2) someone else in your life (coworker, friend, etc.) could be at a really low point but be embarrassed to ask for help.

Think about all the stories you hear about people who were spiraling downward, and yet their neighbors and friends say they had no idea. 

I, for one, can get all wound up in my own little world and miss things going on right next to me.

I heard a couple of stories yesterday about people in our community that are hurting. It made me realize two things: 1) I had no idea it was going on, and 2) I can help.

For the sake of respecting people’s privacy, I understand why we don’t all pry into each other’s personal lives. Having said that, I would never resent someone for pushing through my door and helping me if I was struggling.

I’m no hero, but I think that if I pay more attention to what’s going on around me I might be able to help someone. I’m not going to start sticking my nose in other people’s business, but I could stand to be more present for those around me, and less egocentric.

I don’t want to hear a story about my neighbor after-the-fact and wish I had been there for them. I’m not comfortable with my level of guilt in that kind of hindsight. 

I’ve got two ears, food, wine and companionship to spare. All I ask in return is that no one let me slip through the cracks either.

It might be awkward the first time you check in on your neighbors or get really personal questioning the emotional well being of a friend, but I’ll take awkward over hindsight anytime.

Can we all agree to some healthy, positive type of symbiosis?