Won't you be my neighbor?

Over the last year, many of my original neighbors have moved away. Each time a new neighbor moves in, I bring them a freshly baked goodie and welcome them to the neighborhood. I share information on city services and the days they are performed in our neighborhood.

About four months ago, I noticed people pulling in across the street and bringing furniture and bags into the home. New neighbors! So, I looked in my pantry and began baking a goodie — this time it was chocolate chip cookies.

When I finished baking, I walked across the street to meet my neighbors and to welcome them to the neighborhood. With a plate of cookies, I said, “Welcome to the neighborhood!” They looked at me, somewhat confused, but then saw my smile and smelled the cookies and smiled back. We realized we spoke different languages, but we both understood the intent.

Last week, I was standing on a too-short ladder with my too-short arms trying to trim a huge bush in front of my house. I wrangled with it for about half an hour, making little progress and finally realizing I can’t do this. As if on cue, my new neighbor came over with a 10-foot ladder and a trimmer on a long pole. I did not understand what he spoke, but I understood the intent. He was able to complete the job in little time and left us both smiling.

This is community, and why I love living here!

Laurel Strong moved to Fernandina Beach in 2001. She has been a mentor with Take Stock in Children, and she volunteers with the Coalition for the Homeless, Fernandina Beach Pride, and Affordable Housing First. She also dabbles in theatre at the Amelia Musical Playhouse. Her first duty is as laugh instigator 

If you have a story you'd like to share here in the Fernandina Observer - about a neighbor or friend or stranger or business that showed you kindness, or about kindness and compassion in general - please contact Peggie Weeks at pegweeks@gmail.com