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Snow brings out worst in neighbors

March 2, 2010

In light of our recent snow storm I have both witnessed and been a part of kindness and malevolence among my neighbors. Most of the “shoveling segment” of my building were left without a place to park because self-absorbed tenants quickly grabbed the newly cleared parking spots, refusing to help clear out the rest of the spaces. The arrogance people display through such actions is a detriment to the welfare of society. This is but one small example of the growing trend of inconsideration and selfishness rampant in our culture. In these troubled economic times, emotions can run high and many of us may feel alone or isolated. In our crazy world of instant communication, society seems to have lost sight of the people right next door to them. These are your contemporaries, your community and your fellow citizens. Our neighbors need us, and we need them.

Consider traditions of a mere two decades ago, when we had welcoming committees, tea or coffee with neighbors, pot luck dinners, multi-family yard sales and neighborhood watch organizations. I want to believe that society is better than the few who ignore their fellow man/woman in favor of walking through their lives with little or no regard for others. A sense of pride in our communities needs to be restored. Everyone we come in contact with has the potential to be deeply affected by our actions. Respect others, take pride in ourselves, and take time to be a part of where we live.

Dorene Picker

Peekskill

via Snow brings out worst in neighbors | LoHud.com | The Journal News.

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