The Peterson Group Bespoke Condominiums
and Residences Review: Before humans lived in cities, they formed closely-knit
tribes or villages where almost everyone was related or knew each other as one
knew a brother or a sister. Once the city arose, the closeness remained but greatly
diminished and limited within the family circle or within certain locations
where small associations where established within a community. Although the genuine
intimacy and complete dependence on others which existed in tribes no longer
exist, a semblance of closeness remained if only to satisfy certain social
demands within these communities. This is not to say they lack the sincere and
real associations of ancient tribes, only that one would not go to war against
a neighbor’s enemies if called upon, although a few might.
The dynamics of residential associations is one delicate
subject, if not for its complexity, its propensity to turn sour especially when
finances and personalities are concerned. Many neighbors have parted ways
because of misunderstandings about what and how projects should be put up for a
neighborhood. Having a strong leader helps; but having people who have a deep
appreciation of social dynamics and the history of human relations through the
millennia will help.
How do we establish strong communities that can thrive in
the modern setting?
- Leaders matter only when people become leaders themselves
We cannot be leaders all at the
same time. But to learn how to become a leader is necessary in appreciating how
to find a leader we can respect and follow. Often, our pride prevents us from
seeing things through the eyes and minds of others. This is human nature. But,
as in the case of a vocal oppositionist to a giant conservatory project in
Cornwall, we should tell people what prevents us from supporting an idea or a
project and say so; but that when the majority has chosen and decided on a
plan, he will keep quiet and go with the decision. A naysayer or doomsayer is,
in effect, a leader. A true leader will do well to listen to him or her. What
matters in the end, perhaps, is that we should give each other a chance to
prove ourselves and our ideas so that when the time comes for us to lead, others
would also allow us the opportunity.
- People will give only when they expect something; but, sometimes,
they give unconditionally
In times of crisis, people tend to
give up their comfort and their belongings to help those in dire need. The
community will rally behind a project or an idea once they see they can give of
their time, money and effort and feel they have done a great service without
expecting anything. Every strong community rejoices in the fulfillment of each
and every completed event, whether a parade, a construction project, a social
event or an emergency operation. Those that do not have a strong leadership
tend to keep to themselves and fail to do something good for the community and
for themselves. They may pay their dues and attend meetings regularly out of
obligation; but their main focus is on their personal affairs. Perhaps,
involving people initially in projects that can benefit them may break the ice
toward doing more charitable work or social-outreach endeavors as a community.
- Assessing and upgrading the community’s involvement according to
the demands of the times
Like clubs, many neighborhood
associations exist only for themselves and their immediate concerns – parking
fees, monthly dues, small community projects and holiday parties. A few might
involve themselves with political or social issues that influence their
businesses or their neighborhood. Rarely, however, will people invite resource
speakers, whether from government, from the private sector or from religious or
non-religious groups, to provide a continuing technical, cultural or intellectual
input for their members.
A new vision for communities is required to uplift the minds
and lives of their members. That vision can be achieved with people realizing
that they have a common high-stake in the progress not just in their immediate
surroundings but also in outlying areas and even in the entire world. Getting
to know your neighbor might be the key to getting to know a bigger world out
there. The Peterson Group
believes in the need to strengthen and enhance the community.
