The phrase “stand
for something or fall for everything” reflects the passion of community. The
desire to become involved with a battle cry to fight for what stirs you soul. The
recognition that you cannot enjoy the privilege of being silent.
Society relies upon
technology and industry. Communities require citizens who care. Society needs /
demands capital and assets as indicators of success. Community provides services
not otherwise found. These services help create a thriving neighborhood. These
services fill the holes and provide an assistance for those with want and in
need.
Public Libraries
for example were established “to bring information and imagination to all the
people of community”. These institutions
offer enjoyment for each citizen of the community. They exist because of
support by each member of society. Regardless of which station in life or belief.
A public service which exists for the betterment of society. Many public
libraries are simply an extension of community, a place where friends gather
and share information. Most societies agree a public library should provide all
manner of topics in assorted media formats; they are not institutions for only
a privileged few.
Another example of
a public service which is perhaps taken for granted, fire departments and the mission
to save lives and protect property. Citizens expect there will be this service
provided in their community. However, think for a moment about the level of
commitment required by each member, particularly in rural areas where the
members are volunteering their time and talent and even treasure.
Imagine your
shed is on fire. You need a team of experienced professionals. You place the
call. ……….. No one answers the
telephone. No one has signed up to training. No one has been willing to support
community. Your shed burns to the ground.
Just as society
expects a response when a fire arises, there is also the expectation for
‘someone’ to rise to the challenge when a wild animal situation arises. JUST
like a VFD (Volunteer Fire Department) cannot function and respond when
emergency arises, neither can a Wildlife Rehabilitation Center when there are
no bodies willing to commit to helping neighbors.
A wild animal
is a living being which deserves respect and to not be treated like a
do-it-yourself project by an untrained citizen. A wild animal is not the same
as a domestic pet. Also true is the reality that one tender heart cannot carry
the burden of supporting an entire society in need.
‘Those who do not
move never feel their chains’ were the words spoken by Rosa Luxemburg - a very
wise person. If you do not get involved in what you love today; it may not
exist tomorrow. A community is very much synonymous with an ecosystem. All
members must contribute in their own way in order to keep it functioning. Eco
is Greek for House. Our communal household demands certain aspects accomplished
in order to remain standing and functioning.
Only with unity and
acceptance can a society rise up to the challenge of being a community. Mattie
Stepanek said Unity is strength, when there is teamwork and collaboration,
wonderful things can be achieved. Communities must be guided by unbiased public
sector representatives. There are many local charities in which to become
involved. Sadly, smaller charities are underserved and overshadowed by entities
which claim the spotlight. Choose wisely – opt for community! As we each begin a new day, take a moment and
reflect upon the actions of self and how to improve our todays and ensure a
better tomorrow. Make a pledge to present the present as a present for future
generations.
Society and Community may be parallel to each other. Both
appear to be heading the same direction. Both appear to have the same course. However,
without individuals removing the obstacles, repairing damage, and warning of
the hazards the road will not be traversable. There will be a traffic jam where
Everybody was sure that Somebody would take care of it. Anybody could have done
it. Somebody got angry, because it was Everybody’s job. Everybody thought
Anybody could do it, but Nobody realized Everybody would not do it. So, in the
midst of stagnation and sorrow, Everybody blamed Somebody when nobody did what
Anybody could have done. A society has
four types of ‘body’. Everybody, Somebody, Anybody, and Nobody. A community has
caring hearts, willing hands, active feet and engaged minds. It is up to you
where you live.
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