Southern charm

Dear editor:

We, as residents, choose to live in communities that sometimes turn out not to be communities after all. Reason being: We don’t really know (or care to know) the people living around us. We might believe we’re surrounded by strangers — which, in turn, ends up making us feel lonely and invisible.

Our sense of being in the world depends on creating and maintaining personal relationships throughout our lives. When we don’t know our neighbors and don’t interact with them in healthy ways, we risk becoming isolated and alone. There can be feelings of alienation and disconnection because of the lack of community.

Each and every one of us has a “life story.” We’ve all been hurt numerous times and suffered our share of pain. Procrastination or laziness, anger or bitterness, chronic fatigue or illness, depression or indifference are what keep people from fully participating in life outside their doors.

We are the mirror of all things happening in the world today, whether we believe it or not. We can and do feel the pain and suffering the world is going through. Imagine what a cold place this world would be if human beings lost the capacity to show compassion and empathy for one another. We can’t let that happen.

Surely God’s plan for the human race couldn’t have been what society’s “new normal” has become. Which is: the continuing disappearance of common courtesy, as well as decent manners, having been replaced by acceptable rude behaviors. Basically, people just want to be acknowledged and no one likes being ignored. But disregarding others is hurtful and goes against human nature.

Simple acts of kindness and consideration can (and does) brighten the days for people on their own. Open your hearts and become a friend to the lonely. Reach out and encourage a neighbor. Be a blessing to someone in need. Don’t just look for your “miracle” — become the miracle for someone else. After all — isn’t that the real reason we’re here? Joan Sulich Hot Springs