Montgomery has always been noted for its small-town friendliness and sense of identity. We foster this by maintaining a high degree of neighbourliness! It is becoming more and more fun to do this as new residents join our community from all walks of life, all demographics, and from all over the world. It is easy and free to develop neighbourliness, and it is guaranteed to enhance our quality of life and happiness index. Isn’t that a great goal?
Let’s reflect a moment on what makes a good neighbour: “Hi neighbour” is a good starting point. Waving to your neighbours as you walk or drive by and spot them in their yards works well. Most of us walk around the “hood”. Take note of the new people moving in, make eye contact and shoot them a “good morning” or “welcome”! This shows interest, kindness, and builds trust.
It’s a great idea to let neighbours know when you will be away. A good neighbour keeps an eye on your place, and you reciprocate of course. Safety in the neighbourhood increases as we look out for each other’s homes and yards.
Neighbours don’t have to be buddies, but a good neighbour will be there for a favour. The classic “can I borrow a cup of sugar” opens the communication. A good neighbour might see the opportunity to offer you help. For such a small-time investment, you find the community safer, more friendly, and more charming. Familiarity with your next-door neighbours, and those on your street, fosters loyalty and mutual identity. Our block on 23 Avenue is pretty tight, and we claim to “know all of our neighbours”, hence identify newcomers and welcome them into the fold.
Bonus: if there is an issue with parking, pets, noise, or whatever, we have the open channels of communication to resolve it. We all love Montgomery, the best neighbourhood in the city!
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