The power of community

‘The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members,’ said Coretta Scott King – author, activist, civil rights leader and wife of Martin Luther King. Today, we live in a world where we often forget that we are part of a community and that compassion and civility towards fellows are some of the basic acts of kindness that a human being can display to fellows.

Recently the neighbour of a good friend undertook some demolition and renovation of his building, which was bang next door to the friend’s. As walls were broken and iron grills cut through, a massive cloud of dust enveloped my friend’s home. Not only were the family at risk for respiratory ailments and the flaring up of asthmatic conditions, but their living spaces, plants, furniture, artefacts, et al were laden with fine dust. The noise was deafening. No tarpaulin was used, and workers too had no protective gear. A few other residents urged the man renovating to take due precautions. No action was taken. Finally, a complaint had to be lodged with the relevant authorities for corrective action.

While this is one instance, emptying trash and rubble in front of a neighbour’s house or youngsters speeding down in their cars with music blaring and honking madly in the dead of night are other ways in which members of a community can be insensitively treated.

As residents of one locality or a larger state, we are all interconnected and, in many ways, dependent on each other. Right from looking out for each other’s families, being mindful of their safety and pitching in during emergencies, thoughtful behaviour – even if only virtually on the social media group – will go a long way in fostering a sense of oneness. Something that many of us learnt during the pandemic. In an era of latchkey children and nuclear families, it does take a village to raise a child. Neither can we forget the benefits of community policing. That said, if by chance you find yourself in the circle of a difficult neighbour, just being civil is half the battle won.

What we need to realise is that there is a lot to gain from enjoying a harmonious relationship with neighbours and much to lose from doing the opposite. The world will be a better place and the home the sanctuary it is meant to be.