Why Do We Call Them “Apartments”?

They are usually stuck together.

If you smiled you can give me credit for quoting the comedian George Carlin.  If not, then I guess he wasn’t very funny.

I was reminded of Carlin’s ironic observation in a roundabout way.

Earlier this year there was unexpected turmoil in my life.  As a result I spent a week living with my son Craig and his family, and several months living at my Dad’s house.  Both were new experiences for me – and quite positive.

At Craig’s I enjoyed our late night conversations. I was especially thankful for his family’s hospitality and for their helping me to feel at home

At my dad’s I was also well taken care of. One memory stands out — my encounters with the neighbor across the street.  We often left for work or arrived home at the same time, and whenever he saw me he always offered a cheerful “hi”.  I felt I was a part of a community, rather than apart from the community.  For me this too was a new experience.

It was this play on words – “a part” and “apart” – that reminded me of the George Carlin quote.  Most of us live as a part of a community, yet we often live apart from that same community.  Apparently we need to feel both separate and connected.

Today is Christmas – a day when many families are together.  But many of us feel apart even when surrounded by friends and family.

So this holiday season ask not what your friends and family can do for you.  Instead offer everyone a cheerful “hi,” then listen to their dreams, their hopes, and their stories.  And in the words of Shannon L. Adler, “Pour God’s love out of you in pitcher fulls, not thimbles.”

I appreciate your reading my blog this year.

Love,

Alan