We often close ourselves off behind our big fences, not wanting to disturb the order and structure that we’ve put in place by having to deal with the messiness of other people’s lives. We arrive home, press the automatic gate opener and wait for the gate to open while sitting in the idling car, trying not to make eye contact with too many people in case we get drawn into a long conversation. It’s been a busy day after all and all we want to do is relax in front of the TV after a hard day’s grind.

We don’t realise how much we’re missing but closing ourselves off. We think we’re protecting ourselves by keeping everything the same, keeping to our routines and daily structures. What we’re doing is slowly killing ourselves by not being open to change and growth. That neighbour that wants to chat allows you to glimpse into the life, the thoughts and the passions of another person. It allows you to see something from someone else’s perspective and thereby see a bit more of the puzzle of humanity. Yes, it takes time and energy, but all good things need some effort and work, and isn’t understanding more about each other and therefore more about ourselves worth the effort?