Yikes! With all the complaints about dog poo, unplowed sidewalks and off-leash barking dogs, maybe starting a constructive conversation here in The Squamish Chief paper about what it means to be a good neighbour would be timely and helpful.
We can probably all agree that a good neighbour looks out for others. And that good neighbours are helpful, respectful and considerate – when others see their actions and even when no one is looking. They help their children learn to be respectful of others too.
True neighbourliness often involves a little effort. Here are some ideas I’ve been thinking about lately. What are yours?
Be friendly and polite. A warm “hello” is easy and Squamishers are pretty good at it. Think about bringing this spirit of approachability into interactions of possible conflict.
Maybe someone asks you to leash your dog, or stop dropping f-bombs in front of their kids. Rather than acting dismissively, think about them… perhaps they are feeling scared or vulnerable. Being responsive in a pleasant way helps others feel safe.
Be considerate of the people who live nearby. Shovel your driveway but not the sidewalk? That makes life dangerous for your walking neighbours. What about the time of day you are making noise? Will it impact the well-being of those who live near you? Examples: Do you let your dog bark every morning at 6:45 am? Crank your music late at night? Let your kids have hour-long screaming contests in the backyard?
Get to know others on your street so you can help them. Is there someone who struggles with yard work or snow clearing because of medical problems or age? Thirty minutes of potting, raking, or shovelling can make a huge difference and be a massive relief to your neighbour. A household who has lost a loved one? Casseroles and cookies left on the doorstep let them know their neighbours care. Or maybe there’s a new mom who needs someone to talk to. Seriously, it’s often the small kindnesses that make the most difference.
On the topic of poo. There’s no way around it… Leaving your dog’s poop on a walking or hiking path is not neighbourly. Bagging it and leaving it at the side of the trail isn’t either. Ditto for throwing bagged poo into the trees. Cleaning up the poop shows regard for others who want to enjoy the walk just like you.
Less “Me” and more “We.” Squamishers are good people who step up when bad stuff happens. But can we do better when it comes to the little stuff? Have a think about an unseen act of thoughtfulness you can lift off today. And then keep going. Bonus: You’ll feel good.
Your turn! Let’s deluge The Chief with more neighbourly ideas!
Michele Davidson
Garibaldi Highlands
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