Add Your Dot to the Community Picture

 

In 1884, Georges Seurat created a famous painting called "Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jette," using tiny dots of color instead of brushstrokes. This technique, called Pointillism, made the painting come alive as the dots blended together from a distance, creating a beautiful image. This idea can be compared to our communities today. Each person is like a single dot, and together we form a larger picture.

Just like in Seurat's painting, we all contribute to the overall image of our communities. We may not always realize it, but every action, no matter how small, adds to the bigger picture of our neighborhood, school, or town. Whether it’s helping a neighbor, attending a community event, or even offering a kind word, we are creating our community one “dot” at a time. Each of us has the power to make the world around us brighter, kinder, and more welcoming.

However, we are not just connecting the dots; we are also creating them. Every new relationship or positive interaction adds to the fabric of our community. When we help others, volunteer, or participate in local activities, we are laying down new dots that contribute to the growth of a better community. It’s not just about making connections—it’s about being an active participant in shaping a community that reflects our shared values, kindness, and care for one another.

As we continue to build and connect with each other, we create something much bigger than ourselves. A community is not just a collection of people; it’s a network of individuals coming together to support and care for one another. Just like the dots in Seurat’s painting form a beautiful scene, our individual efforts combine to make the world a more meaningful and connected place.

Just as Seurat’s dots come together to form a masterpiece, each one of us has a role in creating and shaping our communities. Every action, no matter how small, matters. By being thoughtful, kind, and involved, we can contribute to a positive and thriving community that reflects the best of who we are.

Written by David L. Burton

MORE INFORMATION

Take the Engaged Neighbor pledge and become part of a movement! The pledge outlines five categories and 20 principles to guide you toward becoming an engaged neighbor. Sign the pledge at https://nomoregoodneighbors.com. Individuals who take the pledge do get special invitations to future events online and in person. Contact the blog author, David L. Burton via emal at dburton541@yahoo.com.