Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to travel to eastern North Carolina for what the locals refer to as a "hog killin". This community event dates back generations, when farmers and townsfolk would come together following the fattening of hogs over the fall to harvest and process the meat in preparation for feeding families of the farm and community through the winter months.
During the summer, my parents would join forces with Uncle Gene to purchase a few pigs from our neighbor, Mr. Govan. My responsibility was to feed and water the pigs, often called “sloppin’ the hogs”. Though we did not have a “hog killin’”,
we would take the hogs to the local meat processor in the fall for preparing cuts to be stored for the coming months. Our family would also gather hickory wood from the beef barn pasture, and Uncle Gene would keep a portion of the meat to chop and freeze barbecue. Often, we would share portions of what had been packaged with others in the community, just as generations before us.
Growing up in the community of Newell, I recalled other community events such as barn raisings, parades, volunteer fire departments, church BBQ plate fundraisers, and annual heritage days. I remember my community 4-H Club, the 'Harrisburg Helpers', with several leaders in the community joined together to offer opportunities broadening the knowledge of youth who would be future community leaders.
Community is defined as a feeling of fellowship with others, as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals. Community is not self-serving but is focused on the good of the collective group as a whole. Frequently, community efforts would impact those who did not directly participate in the group tasks. Who makes up your community? Could it be that you are engaged in multiple communities?
Today, as I reflect on the topic of community, I am reminded of the power of positivity that can come through working with others for a common goal. I envision how the times and purpose of the community may have expanded or even changed. However, I am blinded by the reality that community is still valuable and that at times, may be overlooked. As you carry on with your weekly tasks and chores, I encourage you to take the time to reflect on your community engagement and the value of working side by side with others for a common positive goal. Find value in your community, or as I have recognized communities, I am fortunate to both support and be supported by more than just one.
It is not more bigness that should be our goal. We must attempt, rather, to bring people back to the warmth of community, to the worth of individual effort and responsibility, and of individuals working together as a community, to better their lives and their children's future.
Robert F. Kennedy
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