CARING NEIGHBOR ROUNDTABLE

To achieve a culture of caring, the Foundation has developed three key social action tools, namely: A GRACE LUNCHEOB to foster caring in the community through its leaders; CARING NEIGHBOR ROUNDTABLE  to draw neighbors together; and  PROJECT CARING NEIGHBOR  for schools to educate the next generation about the caring upon which our prosperity rests. These three strategies when generally implemented will elevate a level of a culture of caring that will transform planet earth.

 A Caring Neighbor Roundtable (CNR) is aimed at developing a culture of caring at the gtassroots level. It is a yearlong exercise consisting of a monthly gathering of 2-12 persons in a home. A sharing of personal thoughts lasts an hour or two followed by a meal (potluck). Each participant should have an opportunity to host a meeting.

Everyone has a story to tell, and every story is equally important. Sharing one’s own story predisposes a person to listen respectfully to the story of a neighbor. Sharing personal stories creates an atmosphere of caring and mutual growth.

 As the group develops, the host of a CNR may select, in advance of the meeting, a topic or article to be discussed. The host chairs the meeting in an atmosphere of respect for the uniqueness of each neighbor. The views offered on the chosen topic may challenge ‘caring’ for the personhood of the neighbor over the thoughts expressed.

We live in an information era that has become more noise than communication. A CNR exercise is critically needed to restore some semblance of neighbor-to-neighbor communication upon which life and prosperity depend.

Following are thoughts as to why a CNR exercise so needed today:

• It fosters a neighbor-to-neighbor relationship that is not prejudging or overbearing and often leads to moving conversation which binds us together yet celebrates our differences.
• In a dreadfully noisy world, a CNR exercise allows an opportunity to both listen and be heard.
• A CNR brings new and enriching insights through learning to respect the worth and unique viewpoint of each neighbor.
• Sharing as neighbors leads to new communication skills that often help strengthen one’s own family life and that of the wider community.
• Just as exercise of the physical body enhances health, so, too, exercise of one’s ‘social’ body impacts the health of the wider community.
• Finally, in our stressful world, a CNR exercise cam lower tensions and be great fun; it will open new worlds and can soon become a high point in a busy month.