Neighborliness

When I woke up yesterday, we only had one degree. One, little degree outside. So cold!

We’ve also had snow and ice. It was shockingly mild from November to mid-January (equal parts disturbing and comfy) but winter is here in earnest, at least this week.

During one of the support groups I lead, people shared these lovely stories about what it was like to have good neighbors during snowstorms. It made me grateful for my neighbors as well. One person loves to use a snow blower to clear sidewalks and driveways. (So kind!) Another likes to make us hot toddies. (I’ll take them!) We know we can count on each other.

I’ve also lived in some places where I didn’t even know neighbors’ names. This is the kind of thing that has to be cultivated, and it typically starts when one person receives from another. It makes a big difference. Plus, it’s fun to know neighbors.

We can make this effort any time.

—Renee Roederer