Humans are social beings and have always lived together, grouped initially by family connections and then by other ties and interests. Such grouping into communities is important for every human being. They give a sense of belonging, a human environment, in which to express oneself, interact and grow. Ultimately, all of us belong to the global community. The purpose of a community is to serve human needs.
Any community that is to survive and flourish must respond to the needs of its members sa human beings and seek to harmonise personal interests and those of the community as a whole.
A community which fails to take account of human nature will eventually defeat its own purpose and rather integration, will suffer disintegration. Social integration requires the appreciation rather than the elimination of differences.
However insignificant it may seem, even the smallest of courtesies can make life easier and more pleasant for others. At times perhaps you expect too much from yourself, or feel uncomfortable asking for assistance. Even if the person you ask can't help you, help will come. Life is supportive, though not always in the way we expect.
People have forgotten the importance of living within a community. Much of the social ills faced today can be traced to the break up of community living. People learnt so much from each other, learned on each other for help and advice. Today all this is lost.
Great things are archieved through the power of co-operation. We are not alone, and we benefit from giving and taking.
Thoughts for reflection:
Let us appreciate what others do for us and let them know it.
by Bridget Menezes (author of Self-Empowerment)
Living And Learning Together
