"The compassionate actions of its members most accurately measure the greatness of a community,” said Coretta Scott King, civil rights leader and widow of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Her words remind us that empathy and kindness are key to building strong, vibrant communities. But what does it mean for a community to be “great,” and how do we measure that greatness?
Often, success is defined by wealth or achievements, but King’s message points to something deeper. She highlights the importance of supporting one another, especially in times of need. A great community is one where people care for the vulnerable and show compassion in their everyday lives. However, compassion alone doesn’t make a community thrive; it’s also about connection and sharing information in ways that bring people together.
Compassionate action can take many forms. It could be the volunteers who cook and serve meals at the Soup’s On program on Fridays in the St. Alban’s church hall, or for The Equality Project on Mondays through Wednesdays, or neighbours offering shelter to those displaced by wildfires. But it doesn’t always require grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s as simple as listening to someone who is struggling, just being present and sitting with someone in silence, or a child setting up a lemonade stand to raise money for flood victims. These small moments of connection build trust and strengthen the bonds within a community, reminding us that there is no age limit to helping others.
Compassion might also be someone driving a neighbour to a doctor’s appointment. These acts of kindness create a ripple effect, fostering a sense of belonging that benefits everyone. When people feel supported, they are more likely to give back, creating a cycle of generosity and care.
Connection is also key to a strong community. In today’s digital world, communities exist not just physically but also online through neighbourhood groups, social media, and forums. These platforms make it easier to share information about local events, opportunities to help, and available resources. However, it’s important to remember those who may be divided by technology, like seniors who don’t have access to social media. Ensuring they stay informed is just as crucial for keeping the community connected.
Disseminating information ensures no one is left behind. Getting important information out, and ensuring that the information is understood, can be a compassionate act in itself. Going door-to-door or calling those who are disconnected helps strengthen the social fabric and encourages greater participation. This creates one part of larger networks where information flows freely, and people work together to solve problems.
At the heart of our great community are compassion and connection. As we stay informed, helping one another and sharing knowledge, we create resilient, adaptable, and unified communities. As King’s words remind us, it’s the compassionate actions of each member that measure the true greatness of this, our community.
