I "Liked" It

It didn’t take much. I simply commented on a post by a neighbor in our Buy Nothing group. She had said “I am a greeting card maker! Would there be interest if I offered a free paper crafting class over Zoom? I would supply you with everything you need to make a couple of projects.”

I “liked” it and commented that I’d be interested. Before I knew it, I had a personal message inviting me with a date, time, and Zoom link.

We picked up our kits at her front door and she encouraged us to set up comfortably at a table with our favorite drink. She indicated that we could keep our cameras off if we wanted to—we didn’t! We all introduced ourselves and shared how long we had lived in the neighborhood and where. It was already fun and worthwhile!

During the class, I met a new neighbor who lived only two blocks away. She had moved in just a few months ago with a four-month-old baby. While “chatting" with her in the chat tool on Zoom, I learned that it had been difficult for her with Covid-19 and the coming of winter to meet neighbors, and she longed to make some connections. I gave her my email and said I'd be glad to get her on our block email list so that she could meet a few more neighbors and know what was going on in our part of the neighborhood, affectionately known as “The Bottoms.” The next morning there was an email from her in my inbox. We’ve been connecting ever since!

As for the card maker, she was warm, friendly, generous, and a great teacher! We all went away knowing a lot more about making cards and with a few completed projects. I asked if she would be interested in doing a similar online event for Valentine’s Day and inviting the neighborhood. (We had had to cancel our in-person neighborhood activities due to pandemic precautions and had been brainstorming other ideas—this fit the bill!) 

Within a few days, we had figured out all the details and now she will be leading us in two more classes in which participants will be making a Valentine’s card and mini (chocolate holding) gift boxes. We already have a number of households signed up!

The moral of the story? Pay attention and say “yes.” Ask questions, be available, and follow-up. Not only will you discover God at work out ahead of you, but you’ll meet some great people, enjoy yourself, and perhaps go home with some beautiful cards too!

Interested in learning how to connect with your neighbors and join God on mission right where you live? Go Local will equip you. Learn more at www.resonateglobalmission.org/go-local