Loving the neigbours or living in harmony with them is not anything new to Indians. While the urban population may see a few challenges in this aspect, many still try and hold on to this concept. Many households have grown up side by side, seen each other’s ups and downs, and more. Occasions of people knocking on neighbour’s doors for grocery emergencies are not uncommon. Sharing and caring among neighbours hold up a community and help sustenance in a big way. It was felt more during this recent pandemic.
In cities, we may have neighbours from different parts of the country. They may be speaking different languages and following diverse traditions. There is also the possibility of picking quarrels with them over something silly. However, for the sake of harmony, it is best to embrace diversity, ignore what we do not like, and keep a healthy relationship. If you are not comfortable with them, there is no need to invite them for dinner. However courteous greetings and friendly how do you dos, can work wonders.
So get to know your neighbours and keep the door open. They are your first port of call for any help, and in that sense, more important than family. They can help you get a feel of the missing family, prop you up when you feel down, and become an extended family. There are many benefits of knowing your neighbours. However, let us not forget the English proverb, love your neighbor, yet, do not pull down your hedge. Let us how and why knowing neighbours become important.
Feeling Safe
Good neighbours can help each other to feel safe. Any unwanted (suspicious) movement gets reported, especially if you are not around. The joke about neighbours being your CCTV in the olden is true. If you are a senior living alone without immediate family, neighbours can help you get to the hospital in case of an emergency. Having neighbours checking on you even if occasionally, creates a warm feeling of someone looking out. It is helpful to create a safety net.
A Little Gossip Helps
Gossip need not always be bad. Neighbours’ chit-chats are the place for information dissemination. You can a lot of input about anything good and bad happening around you. You would know where there is a sale, where a new grocery store came up, when and how to register for a specific service, etc. You may also get a lot of unwanted inputs that you can safely ignore. But the benefits far outweigh being up to date.
Gives a Sense of Belonging
As we age, there is always the chance that we may feel isolated, left out etc. Good neighbours can together help build a safe and caring community where people care and look after each other. It gives a sense of belonging and a new purpose to life. If the vibes match, you could plan outings, and dinners, celebrate festivals together, etc. People may check in to see why you have missed out on some gatherings. It makes you feel some people care about your absence. Some warm food from the neighbours is more welcome than ordering something if you are sick.
Keeps You Mentally and Physically Healthy
Social interaction is vital as we age. It is more so in today’s times. There is a good chance of anxiety and depression affecting us otherwise. Good, connected neighbourhoods expand our social circles-real ones compared to virtual ones. This social circle can be a lifeline as it can help you stay positive, happy, and healthy. It will prompt you to leave your TV and go for walks, which keeps you physically active. Even scientific studies have proved that higher social interaction, the better our brain health is.
You may feel motivated to try new activities like joining a Yoga class or picking up a hobby. You may feel empowered when a neighbour seeks your help to learn something new like your favourite recipe. Maybe you love pets but can not afford to keep one for reasons other than financial. You could choose to make friends with your neighbour’s pets and even offer to watch them for a while. You could leave your plants with them when you travel.
There are enough and more reasons to know your neighbours. However, a word of caution. Unless you feel they are fully trustworthy, keep that hedge up. Do not share everything openly, especially financial details and passwords. Give and take respect, and ensure either side does not cross some boundaries if you love your privacy. Make sure that they have your immediate emergency contacts and vice versa.
In the end knowing, and keeping good relations with your neighbours is always going to be beneficial.
Waiting for your views on this blog.
Anil Malik
Mumbai, India
24th November 2022