The Community Magician

I don’t recall the precise date, but it was earlier this year, maybe March when God thumped me on the head and said, “Hey Barb! Why don’t you use your technology skills in the real world, like, right outside your front door?!”

I didn’t like that idea because it meant stepping out of my cozy corner and being vulnerable. This is an ongoing theme in my life. Right when I get comfortable and things are running smoothly, that still small voice inside wants to stir things up. Just like writing about living sober, I don’t want to write about that and relive that part of my past, but my daughter summed it when she said, “If you feel like God wants you to do it…then you know it’s eventually going to get done.” 😄

Eventually being the key word here, because the more uncomfortable the ask, the longer I try to renegotiate the idea. Our own ideas are easily dismissed, but when it comes from from a place higher than ourselves…those never leave.

So, I’m trying to create a neighborhood directory. I typed up a letter of my intentions, printed it out and placed it in about 30 mailboxes. This is totally illegal, by the way, but the mail carrier knows me, so I’m believing in grace. One person responded and I was thrilled, but that was it. I started asking people, “Did you get my letter?”, and some did while others thought it was junk mail and discarded it. A few didn’t know what a neighborhood directory is and had reservations, so I listened and reassured them of my intent to easily connect us as a community.

Every time I get slightly discouraged, or begin to doubt the assignment, someone shows up to hand over their information. Some would say, ‘There’s an app for that”, but it is not the same. To have a piece of paper containing the house number down the street with a name and phone number is like magic!

In my workplace they dubbed me, The Community Magician, because they say I create magic in their online communities. Let’s see if some of that online magic can spill over into this real-life community.

P.S. Let me know if your neighborhood has a directory, or if you wish they did.

Photo by Nina Strehl on Unsplash

Discover more from Inbarbsworld

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

7 responses to “The Community Magician”

PatNewMex

Aug 23, 2023 at 10:17 am

I live in such a tiny community that most of us know each other. If we need to find someone, a neighbor will oblige information. Most people out in this neck of the desert are old, stubborn, very cliquish folks, not wanting to be bothered. I believe the majority of us are in our 50s plus. We DO watch out for each other, but personalities in a small town….how do I explain it……are here for the long haul, and most don’t want to be bothered. The local feed store, gas station, or dollar general store are meeting places where we find out news and local gossip. We also have a small mountain area newspaper, free. Plus we have the Next Door App, but that is mostly gossip and politics, not worth much IMHO. I wouldn’t mind a paper directory for out here but pretty much we all have each others cell numbers, and do a lot of local texting. “Is your power out? Yes? Okay I’ll call the report in to the power company.” “Watch out there is a rattler in your yard” or “Your dog is on the loose.” And like that. I do applaud your efforts. How about a small block party where people meet face-to-face?

LikeLiked by 1 person

Reply
1. Barb
  
  Aug 23, 2023 at 11:46 am
  
  And you just defined the difference between a neighborhood and a community Patty! The Nextdoor app is useless, but can be some great entertainment! Yes ma’am…already planning a street party for October and that’s just the beginning. 😊
  
  LikeLike
  
  Reply
PatNewMex

Aug 23, 2023 at 10:24 am

ADDING: That directory would be awesome if it listed skills or abilities each person had they could teach someone else or lend a hand. I can sew and mend, I’m pretty good at fixing things, I use power tools with ease, can teach someone to preserve foods or cook or bake. I am super organized, can teach someone to keep a budget, organize their home, garage, shed or pantry. So much wasted talent just sitting here, lol. Maybe your directory can be based on abilities or skills so there is a reason to share info or to want info?

LikeLiked by 1 person

Reply
1. Barb
  
  Aug 23, 2023 at 11:48 am
  
  Thank you for sharing this Patty! I’m adding skillsets of each household, but you just took it to another level! Grateful for you. 💖
  
  LikeLike
  
  Reply
Deborah

Aug 23, 2023 at 10:31 am

I love the moniker “Community Magician” and your sharing it. And, BOY HOWDY, did I laugh a hearty knowing laugh at this: “the more uncomfortable the ask, the longer I try to renegotiate the idea.” Bwahaha.

LikeLiked by 2 people

Reply
1. Barb
  
  Aug 23, 2023 at 11:50 am
  
  Thank you Deborah! It’s the best title ever acquired! Right? The struggle is real, but God always wins. 😂
  
  LikeLiked by 1 person
  
  Reply
still a dreamer

Aug 24, 2023 at 4:21 pm

We do not have a directory such as you describe, though many of us in this part of the neighborhood all have each other’s contact info in our phones. I was also recently invited to join a “Buy Nothing” group on FB just for my town and the one adjoining. This is where people post something they have to #give away (no $$ ever) and anyone can ask to be considered, or you can also do a #ask if there’s something you need. I love this – it’s truly neighbors helping neighbors, and the stuff offered can range from children’s clothes to patio furniture to books – anything. The taker just has to go pick it up.
Good luck on your mission!
Mailbox alert!

LikeLike

Reply