As we celebrate National Good Neighbor Day this weekend we should think about all the ways we interact with others. When I have a positive encounter with someone in a shop, on the street, or get a wave from a driver to let me make a turn in traffic, I get such a good feeling. It releases endorphins. I’m sure we can all relate to these kinds of experiences. As our city becomes more densely populated, it’s more important to be mindful of how our habits and behaviors affect others: the way we drive, the noise we make, the lights we shine. In a stressed out, amped up culture, these kind considerations go a long, long way.

I have a friend who forgets sometimes to turn off his porch light. He walked over and asked his next-door neighbor to please let him know if the light bothers him. It is kindnesses like these that make us feel like we have some agency over our own space. We live in a culture that encourages a mindset of “it’s my property and I can do what I want.” I believe it is important to strike a balance between individual rights and how we affect others around us. Honest communication, listening with our ears in our heart, is, I think, the best solution when there is conflict. Rather than making assumptions, attentive listening and cooperation wins hands down. We are all neighbors after all.

Leslie Chalmers

Leeds

Editor’s note: The Gazette is publishing short essays over the next several weeks to mark National Good Neighbor Day on Sept. 28. Have a story about good neighbors in your lives? Send your submission of 500 words or less to opinion@gazettenet.com.