Celebrate Good Neighbors!

National Good Neighbor Day is September 28th, and while we weren’t on time, my son and I decided to celebrate!

We’re busy people and members of a busy family, and perhaps you are, too. Throwing a block party for the neighborhood or even baking cookies and passing them out to our friends and enemies on the street (just kidding about enemies) was not an option, especially this close to the holiday season.

My son had the idea of celebrating Good Neighbor Day by spreading some positivity. While his dad and I were outside setting up our not-so-spooky Halloween decorations in the front yard yesterday, our son took his collection of chalk and started decorating the sidewalk near our home. He went with friendly messages like “Happy Fall!” or “Trick-or-Treating This Way!” As he kept at it, he got more creative with his public art and now we have zombies, spider webs, and ghosts smiling up at us and others as they take their daily walks.

Getting to know your neighbors and taking care of them, however you can, is a guaranteed way to decrease stress and increase happiness in your personal life. Beyond your own front door, strong, healthy neighborhoods are ones where the neighbors not only look out for another, but also encourage hospitality and celebration.

How can you love on your neighbors in a way that feels authentic and life-giving to you? How would you like your neighbors to take care of you?

Food for thought for today, and every day!