As we head towards another Christmas, two words echo strongly in my mind: family and community. I believe the health of our nation is directly linked to how strong we are in these two areas.
Poet John Donne wrote: “No man is an island entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main”.
Sadly, it’s easy to gravitate towards independence, without stopping to think about the negative social side effects.
With the advent of social media, we are often closer to someone on the other side of the world than our next-door neighbours.
I recently read an article outlining how American companies are selling bulletproof blankets to families, for their children to take to school. Let’s be clear: no child should ever have to take a bulletproof blanket to school in their school bag. We must continue to keep a tight rein on gun ownership in New Zealand, but it’s also important that we develop strong relationships with our neighbours.
As a kid, I remember haymaking season on the farm. Families would work together, moving from one farm to another. Everyone helped out, knowing that their very survival depended on a strong community network.
My Grandma, who passed away earlier this year at the age of 87, used to talk about life prior to refrigeration, where farmers would take turns killing an animal and sharing it among the neighbours.
After a successful fishing trip, Grandad would hang a fish on the gate of each neighbour on his way home. However, when freezers arrived, people gradually started putting all their food in their own freezer.
Technology allows us the opportunity to “look after ourselves”, but we must remember to maintain our community links, knowing that we are at our strongest when we support each other.
Society is not just an aggregate of individuals, it’s a collective group; we are all intrinsically linked.
During this festive season, let’s spare a thought for those who have a challenging family situation: Christmas can be a lonely time for many.
I recently read a thought-provoking quote: “I would like to ask God why he allows loneliness and suffering in the world when he could do something about it. But I fear he would ask me the same question”.
My wife and I enjoy attending various local events. It provides a feeling of togetherness, and it’s wonderful seeing our children interact with other kids. As parents and grandparents, we must model a sense of community to our young ones.
A few months ago I noticed a bench seat in front of the playground at one of our local schools. After inquiring, I was told it’s a “Friendship Seat”. Children who are feeling lonely sit on the seat, and others, upon seeing them, invite them to play.
We must value and cultivate strong family and community bonds, knowing that at some point in our lives each one of us may very well find ourselves sitting on the friendship seat.
Jamie Strange is a Hamilton-based School Teacher and father of four. I am also the Hamilton East Labour Party Chairperson.
Jamie – your words have warmed out hearts and what a wonderful piece of writing at this time of year. Thank you ! So great to read this and wishing everyone happiness and closeness with others this holiday season. Kindness and caring are so needed and as you say, also for those feeling a bit lonely and who experience not the best family situations.
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