All in One Place

In the mid 90's Robert Putnam did a study on the social fabric of America. His findings - for every 10 minutes of daily commute, we are 10% less likely to have meaningful relationships. The average commute for Americans today - 30 minutes, each way!

This year, as an Americorps member, I have been fortunate enough to experience living, working and doing life in the same community. Some of the greatest benefits noted so far...

• Saving money on transportation
• Saving hours of daylight for many activities
  
• Seeing neighbors on the street, at work, at the store -
• Experiencing the adventures of relationship building
  
• Being challenged to love and serve everyone I see (because I will see them again tomorrow) - easier to say than do!
• Familiar faces at the grocery store
• Not being worried if I forget something at my home
• Being on time is easier than ever before!
• Can you think of anything else?! (add to the comments)

I understand that this is not a feasible living situation for everyone in Austin. Some workplaces are many miles away from any livable residential area. I'm simply pointing out that living and working in the same community has tremendous benefits for both the individual and society. Before the invent of the modern highway system, people had no other choice but to work near their homes. Real relationships (not online kind!) grew out of necessity and daily dependence. Nowadays, its easy for one individual to live in one community, while working, shopping,going to school, going to church, dining, and doing exercise in completely different communities. There's nothing inherently wrong with that, but I personally believe too much of a divided sense of community can lead one feeling disconnected and isolated! Arguably one of the greatest desires that we as humans have: true community. We weren't built for isolation.

It's my desire to keep this as a reality in my life as long as possible - and I invite others to do the same!