LOVE THY NEIGHBOR AS THYSELF
I had noticed the behavior of the lady across the street. Sometimes something seemed a bit bazaar. But I never bothered to befriend her So it was with some surprise that I greeted her when she came to my house. Nice day in June – green grass, flowers blooming, patio clean so I invited her to sit with me at the patio table.
She was greatly disturbed at the police. I tried to talk her down, to calm the situation. But she continued to complain not only about those in our present town but also about those in different towns in which she had lived.
Since I would not join in her criticism, she got angry and shouted at me, “Just you wait, in the morning your lawn will be covered with …..with ….tea pots.” With that she left me.
Sort of sad, but also sort of endearing that the worse she could wish upon me was a lawn full of tea pots!
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Sweet aroma 
What truth you have expressed in this post. A bit of a self-reflection focus on me to look and listen more to any encounters with my neighbours……whoever they may be. Thank you for the sharing.
It has made be consider my ways again. However, I failed to make contact with one lady whom I need to call. Try after the holiday.
Well said Oneta, we need to treat all well, listen and respond appropriately, but does sound like her problems needed medication…. but if we listen and care for each, help the local poor our world would be a better place!
So many think those overseas deserve more,
and forget those living right next door!
😀 Helping those next door requires deep personal involvement. We don’t like to invest time when a few bucks will ease the conscience.
know two expats who treated the Indian beggars very differently, one gave a generous monetary donation every time she walked past … the other smiled and chatted as she didn’t have money to spare … guess which one the beggars had more love and respect for despite their great neediness … 🙂
Our time and kindness is worth far more than a lottery win 🙂
Right. Kindness might give someone the motivation to do something for themselves in ways giving cash does not do.Thank, Kate. I always enjoy chatting with you.
likewise Oneta … you have such an open and pure heart, love you 🙂
You always give me such grace, no wonder I love “chatting” with you. Thanks, dear. 😀