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Anna's avatar
4dEdited

I always enjoy reading your thoughts.

Society has definitely shifted over the years, even in New Zealand, well at least white culture. My Mum grew up in a time when people left their doors unlocked and the neighbours would pop by unannounced to say hello, there was so much more neighbourhood community that went on. These days higher fences have gone up down the streets, when I think about white culture in NZ these days the word individualism comes to mind. I say white culture because it's very different from the Māori and Pacific Island cultures which are centred around their community in every way whether that's home life (often intergeneration living), church, on the marae.

Of course with my Dad being from London he had a different upbringing, he definitely talked about that it would be rude to have unannounced visitors, but I do wonder if my Grandma would still pop over next-door for eggs or lemons if needed.

It would be great if we could all make more of an effort to connect, I think there's something beautiful that happens when we take the focus off our own lives and take time to get to know other people and hear their life stories.

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Yarnell Talley's avatar

I used to live in a “high rise” apartment building, and while it was beautiful…it’s something that I said I would never do again. I longed for the neighborhood feel that you just can’t get in the heart of the city. I completely empathize and agree with everything you wrote. Especially about how we engage online, and have much to say. But don’t even speak to peak passing in the street!

Love your work. Keep going!

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