I’ve just returned from a vacation with my family in Addison, Maine. What a refreshing privilege to spend so much time with them, relaxing and enjoying nature all the while. We stayed in a very small town community during our week there. Everyone in the area waved as we drove by. I felt so welcomed when I experienced this. It has been so long since I’ve lived in Maine, that I’ve forgotten how endearing the people of Maine can be. I wish that my own community in Plainfield, NJ shared the same outlook and attitude. The simple wave between people is a shared positive experience. On a spiritual level, something as simple as a wave and a smile can convey that you are acknowledged, that you are not an anonymous passer by. I think this dispels the sense of suspicion and separation that creeps so easily into suburban living.
Perhaps this attitude of welcoming developed between the closely knit citizens, and is simply extended to visitors out of habit. Maybe these people are more relaxed because they are in closer touch with nature. Who can say what the cause is? Regardless of the reason, the presence of this welcoming attitude in Addison, Maine has spurred a personal reflection on my own attitude and habits toward my neighbors. How much have I adapted as a result of the different communities in which I have lived over the last 10 years away from Maine? Can I bring this welcoming attitude to Plainfield in my own small way?
We live in Plainfield and often wave at our neighbors on the street… in our little area of the city we’re fortunate enough to be able to get to know the people around us and enjoy seeing them walking their dogs, doing yard work, etc. I think all of us CAN help to bring this welcoming attitude in our own small ways throughout the city. It’s small changes like this – along with the big changes of course, like revitalizing our downtown – that will help to turn Plainfield’s reputation around and make it a more attractive place for people to live and visit. You’ve inspired me!