Putting the U in Community

One of the things I like best about our community at the Ashram is that people feel free to express whatever’s on their mind, and frequently what’s in their hearts.

You can get small talk anywhere. 

In many offices or social circles, it’s not customary to share about things that matter deeply to you, such as your concern over a sick relative, or perhaps your own ailment, or something that’s troubling you. 

When there's business to be done in a work environment, many people's hearts close up.

But in a truly supportive community, you'd never hear, "I'd complain, but who'd care?" They do care - that's the difference.

Or if you want to share some deep life lesson you just learned, or respond to someone’s query with your own extensive knowledge on the subject, you can do that in a nurturing community. In fact, your contribution is expected.

That's another thing a great community does - it gives back in the form of giving you a purpose, particularly if it has charitable endeavors. It reminds us that we all have something to give, and how good it feels to give it. You gain in the giving.

And when you have good news to share? It will be truly celebrated. Not with jealousy, but true appreciation.

I googled “what makes a good community” and found a great article where six community workers express their views on this topic, and it's too good not to share: What Makes a Good Community? They’re from Northern Ireland, which demonstrates the principles for a good community are universal – I recommend giving it a glance.

I learned that you can't have community without open hearts. Who wouldn't want to hang out in a place like that?