Try March Neighborliness, Not March Madness

 


March Madness is a term that has become synonymous with the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, an annual event that captivates sports fans across the United States. This highly anticipated tournament takes place every March and features 68 college basketball teams competing in a single-elimination format to determine the national champion. 

The term "March Madness" perfectly encapsulates the frenzy and excitement of this tournament, as teams battle it out on the court in a quest for glory. It also captures the Madness (or fascination) surrounding men's college basketball at this time of the year.

MARCH NEIGHBORLINESS

This year, instead of March Madness (which started in 1939), what about a bracket for March Neighborliness? The March Neighborliness chart can be downloaded from Google Drive here for free or shared with this shortened link: https://bit.ly/MarchNeighborliness. I created bracket in 2023 so it has yet to become a cultural phenomenon that transcends the world of anything, like March Madness in sports.

March Madness has become a time of year when basketball enthusiasts and casual fans alike come together to witness thrilling games, unexpected upsets, and unforgettable moments that define the essence of competition.

Since March is already the birthday of Mister Fred Rogers (on March 20), why not replace that March Madness bracket with the March Neighborliness bracket?  Maybe those not watching basketball would like to get involved with spreading kindness on their street, in their neighborhood, or in their town?

There is no fantasy tournament for neighborliness. Instead, this is very personal. Plus you have total control over the outcome. I want to hear what activity wins your tournament this year (Email me at burtond@missouri.edu). You can also report your activity online at Won't You Be My Neighbor Day.

DEFINING FEATURES

One of the defining features of March Madness is the concept of "Cinderella stories," where lower-seeded teams defy the odds and make deep runs in the tournament, often upsetting higher-ranked opponents along the way. These underdog teams capture the hearts of fans with their tenacity and determination, showcasing the unpredictable and exhilarating nature of college basketball.

There is a chance for the same type of upsets to happen in March Neighborliness. Could a neighborhood potluck lead your tournament bracket? That is a great idea, but it is also a well-known option. Could hosting a coffee social this year lead the way?

The March Madness tournament is structured to create a sense of urgency and excitement, with teams facing the pressure of win-or-go-home scenarios in each game. This high-stakes environment adds to the drama and intensity of March Madness.

With March Neighborliness, I am not skipping work to watch others do neighborhood events. But this could be a really big day for anyone leading or promoting a neighborhood association. Just reading over the bracket gets me excited!

NEIGHBORLINESS IS OVERTAKING THE CULTURE

March Madness also holds a special place in the hearts of college basketball fans due to its tradition of bracketology, where fans predict the outcomes of each game and compete in bracket challenges to test their knowledge and intuition. 

The unpredictability of the tournament often leads to bracket-busting upsets and surprises, keeping fans on the edge of their seats throughout the competition.

March Madness is more than just a basketball tournament; it is a cultural phenomenon that brings people together to celebrate the spirit of competition.

The excitement and energy of March Madness makes it a unique experience for fans, solidifying its status as one of the most beloved and cherished sporting events.

I hope that this year, March Neighborliness is spread nationwide among fans of neighboring that we can all plan a favorite activity or service that demonstrates love of or neighbors.

As a reminder, the March Neighborliness chart can be downloaded from Google Drive here for free.

MORE INFORMATION

Does this article make you interested in taking the Engaged Neighbor pledge? Five categories and 20 principles to guide you toward becoming an engaged neighbor. Sign the pledge online at http://engagedneighbor.com.

Contact the blog author, David L. Burton at dburton541@yahoo.com.

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