How Nice is Your Neighbor to Other Neighbors: An American Perspective

In the United States, the concept of neighborly kindness varies greatly from more traditional societies, but it is still a valued and cherished trait. Personal experiences can offer valuable insights into the often unspoken bonds that exist within neighborhoods. My journey through different neighborhoods has shown me the spectrum of neighborly behavior, ranging from the truly selfless to the neglectful.

A Neighbors’ Role in Times of Crisis

Many years ago, while living in a suburban neighborhood in the US, I experienced a firsthand account of how neighbors can come together during times of crisis. When flooding hit our side of the street, my house became a temporary refuge for others in the neighborhood. Despite my husband being away on business, we welcomed our neighbors into the living room, waiting for the water to recede and the skies to clear.

Despite the water level showing some receding, my next-door neighbor decided to leave and assess her own damage. Her companion, coincidentally, was away on business and expected to return shortly. As the storm began to ebb and dawn approached, we ventured outside to inspect the aftermath of the disaster. What we found was distressing: the house next to ours on the right had been structurally damaged beyond repair. The front and back walls of the basement were entirely gone, with only the side walls supporting the roof.

Community Support in Challenging Times

Amidst the despair, our left-side neighbors quickly offered their support. They invited our next-door neighbors to stay with them while they worked on plans to rebuild. Both couples, coincidentally, didn't have children, which made the situation more manageable. The county required hearings to allow the rebuilding due to the house being in a flood plain. Our right-side neighbors ended up living happily and comfortably with our left-side neighbors for over a year without any intrusion.

The bond that was formed during those trying times has endured. We are now a group of close friends who rely on each other for various needs. We share tools, help with yard work, and watch out for each other, maintaining a level of trust and companionship that rivals that of childhood friends. The experience taught us the importance of community support and the strength that comes from mutual understanding and empathy.

Reflections on Community Dynamics

However, not all neighbors exhibit such selflessness. I have encountered stinginess and even negativity in other neighborhoods. For instance, the house to the left of me belonged to my grandparents. They are usually the nicest people you could hope to meet, but on one occasion, one of them rudely called my aunt a 'whore.' Such behavior is troubling and brings into question the true nature of neighborly kindness.

Another similarly disappointing experience involved a friendly Mexican couple who used to live in the house behind me. Sadly, I never truly got to know them, meeting them only on three occasions before they moved away. The house to the right of me suffered a devastating fire, and to my dismay, it was never rebuilt. This left a lasting impact on the community and highlighted the importance of continuity and care.

What these experiences teach us is that while some neighbors are truly dedicated and supportive, there are always those who might fall short. Yet, the stories that emerge from such situations—both positive and negative—paint a richer picture of community dynamics. They remind us that fostering a sense of mutual respect and understanding is crucial for building strong and resilient communities.

Conclusion: The kindness of neighbors can make a world of difference, especially during times of crisis. While we may not always have the option to choose our neighbors, we can always choose how we interact with them. By fostering a culture of kindness and support, we can transform our neighborhoods into vibrant communities where everyone feels valued and supported.