WINSTON WEEKLY©^[1]

May 25, 2025

Vol. 3, No. 21

NEIGHBORLY INFLUENCES

Whether noisy neighbors, nice neighbors, or nosy neighbors, they influence how we think, act, and live. For nearly five years, we have had nice neighbors, each with distinct backgrounds, differences, and preferences. From the retired couple across the way to the couple with four boys next door to the gay couple with the teenage son to the multiracial couple whose husband was sadly recently placed in memory care, they have broadened our perspectives and provided a sense of community.

We were skeptical when the couple with the four boys moved in after the older couple with the elderly mother/mother-in-law moved out. Fearful that the quiet we enjoyed during our previous three years would be shattered, we find ourselves pleasantly entertained by the occasional screams of the boys as they chase balls, play on their trampoline, and ride their bikes. A new sense of wonder and adventure is alive in our cul-de-sac, despite not being the type to have neighborhood cookouts or gatherings. We are all content to keep mostly to ourselves, but take comfort in knowing that a hand, an ear, or both can be available if needed.

Reflecting on the many neighbors over the years, I am reminded of Andy Reid’s comments after the ensuing uproar over Kansas City Chiefs’ kicker Harrison Butker’s

2024 commencement address at Benedictine College:

I didn’t talk to him about this. I didn’t think I needed to. We’re

a microcosm of life here. Different religions, different races.

We all get along; we all respect each other’s opinions. And not necessarily do we go by those. But we respect everybody to have a voice.[2]

THIS WEEK’S ACTIVITY

Develop a crossword puzzle or word search describing your current or past neighbors. In doing so, consider whether you formed or gave opinions about them that changed over time, and if so, why.

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[1] A Sunday newsletter and blog by Alysen Bayles to be shared with the appropriate attribute.

[2] Tom Dierberger, Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid Make First Comment on Harrison Butker, Sports Illustrated, May 22, 2024.