I’ve been continuing the long discussion on community and I’m coming to a number of conclusions. While communal living has numerous attractions it isn’t the solution for the many, I think realistically the majority will never buy into it. On the flip side the status quo holds limited attraction also with many realising it falls short in so many ways.
So just like politicians we’re searching for the popular middle ground. What does that look like? How do you move away from the strongly individualistic (where we are right now) and yet avoid the one big house and some chickens scenario?
- I think proximity is a must, you need to live close enough to others to share, swap, live. This probably should be no more than a 5-10 minute walk. Beyond that we’re hopping in and out or cars which is polluting and tiresome.
- There should be some intentional thinking about sharing – what’s available, what’s not. Some things are easier than others, tools and garden equipment for example. Perhaps some creativity could go into with the sharing of chores as well as time. Giving an element of work. If 3 or 4 of us clean house together it gets done quicker, yet we share work and time together, creating companionship and fighting loneliness. Other ideas?
- Financial accountability. Not to curb spending but to increase generosity. Not a law that is required but a sought for intentional commitment to be open, to give, to share.
- As Christians, some thought on how to meet the needs or bless those immediately around you, so together influencing your neighbours is needed. Perhaps Life Groups/ Cell groups would be better organised geographically encouraging this kind of thinking.
That’s as far as I’ve got. What have I got wrong or what would you add in?
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