Like a good neighbor

We hear so much about “why are we helping people that were not responsible in their borrowing?” or “why should I fit the bill for my neighbor?” What happened to the “good neighbor” philosophy, where neighbors were concerned about each other and it was okay to borrow a cup of sugar or to welcome new people to the neighborhood? It got lost in the greed and ambition of individuals as their incomes increased and they realized that they did not need the assistance of their neighbors.
In the good ole’ days, the neighbors helped each other by babysitting providing food and even helping with the bills when there was a need. Now you cannot ask your neighbor for even a cup of sugar without their being a hassle.
The financial crisis is affecting us all, not just your neighbor. Higher prices, lower housing property values, and loss of jobs within the community are not just your neighbor’s issue, but your issue, as well. As neighbors we can work together to overcome some of the issues that are occurring by helping each other while in need, whether it is emotional, financial, or spiritual. Once we get back to some of the core values that made our ancestors so strong, we will be able to see how important it is to “love thy neighbor”.