In the weeks following Hurricane Helen wreaking havoc in Western NC, my little neighborhood overlooking the French Broad River did what the whole area did…showed up for each other. We talked, we shared, we got to know one another.
As power and water returned, so did a lot the separateness of everyday life. Yet, we had just gone through something traumatic and monumental…and we did it together. I knew that there was still a need to share, to talk, to be there for each other.
With the help of my partner, I placed a dry erase board on the edge of my lawn. On it, I put the words “Tell Us…”. I began writing prompts on it and invited my neighbors to respond. I was beyond delighted when folks started writing back…even more so when people made it a point to tell me how much they enjoyed having it on our street.
Some of the prompts are silly. Others are more serious. But no matter what it is, folks respond. People stop to read it. It brings us a little of the togetherness that is needed.
My hope is to expand this project through Asheville and then to other communities.
I am currently seeking ways to make that happen.
If you are interested in possibly hosting a “Tell Us” board, please fill out the form below and I will be in touch.
