As I waited for my bus recently, I got talking to a lady from another area, who has moved to Cornwall.
She feels very isolated, because her neighbours hardly ever speak to her, which I’m sure isn’t the result of any animosity on their part, but they are probably very busy and feel naturally reserved, as well as having many other things on their minds.
So please don’t get me wrong, because I’ve found the Cornish people very warm and friendly, but that lady’s neighbours probably have no idea just how lonely she feels, because people don’t wear labels, or display placards, telling the world how lonely and isolated they feel.
I’m so very lucky to have friendly neighbours, who always greet me kindly, yet are not not intrusive. Many people throughout my local community are always pleased to see me, with smiles and friendly words and I count my blessings every single day.
I’m one of the lucky ones and I wish everyone was as fortunate as I am, with friendly neighbours, who all make me feel part of my local community.
It occurs to me that we could all do a bit more to encourage concord wherever we happen to live, within and throughout our own local areas, keeping our eyes and ears open, with a friendly word or two to those whom we meet and whose paths we cross on our way through life.
Meanwhile, I send my best wishes to one and all and many, many grateful thanks to each and every one of those wonderful people who are actively involved in their own respective communities (or beyond), bringing helpings of joy and happiness to others.
Yours sincerely
Lomond Handley
