The 5 Steps To A Simple Marriage- Part 5: Living In Community

Photo courtesy Debi123

Unless you have tendencies similar to isolationists or would enjoy being a real life cast away, you live in and amongst people. Whether this community of people is in a city, suburb, or a rural town, there are other people around.

With the advent of the Internet, cell phones, video conferencing, and email, we have the capability of being more in touch with others than ever before. Yet, it seems as if people are more lonely and disconnected. One aspect vital to a simple marriage is living in community with others.

We are relational beings. We seek out connection with other people all the time. And this connection can add a tremendous value to life. Many things in life are simply better when shared with others. Trips, games, conversations, sex. Being in contact with other people adds to the experience.

While there are times when you do need to seek solitude or time alone, it usually isn’t long before connection with another human is sought out.

This idea made more sense to me this past week. I have been traveling for the past three weeks and during that time was unable to connect with my local church community. Sunday I returned to church and the feelings I experienced were unexpected. I was a bit like a kid in the candy store. Energetic, happy, excited.

I found myself seeking others in order to reconnect and share life.

When you can align yourself with others, life is more full.

(The same principles apply for individuals and couples. The only caveat is seeking out other couples to share life with.)

The benefits of living in community.

• When you surround yourself with like minded people, it creates a synergy for life.
• More desire and drive is created to accomplish goals and live out dreams.
• You can feed off each others passions.
• Other people can hold you accountable for your goals.
• You’ll be happier with life, as will others within your community.

Not sure how to create a community? Here’s a list to get you started. I’m sure you can easily add to this list if you think about it.

1. Smile and be friendly. It amazing how a simple smile will attract other people.
2. Join a community group or volunteer organization. Helping others is a great way to create and live within a community. Pick up the phone and call around to local charities. They usually need people to assist them, you could be that person.
3. Join a health club. I’ve been part of a club for over 10 years. As a member of this club, I’ve been playing basketball with the same group of guys 2 to 3 times per week. Many of these guys are now part of my community of friends.
4. Join a local church. This is my favorite community of friends. Mainly because of the similar beliefs and goals among the people. But a church body is a tremendous blessing to my life and many others.
5. Help out fellow motorists. Next time you see someone stranded with their car on the road, stop to lend a hand. They may just need a push out of traffic, or a cell phone to call roadside assistance.
6. Sit out in front of your house in the evenings. This may be a bit old school, but it really works. By being out front, you get the chance to meet your neighbors.
7. Your turn… what other ideas can you add?

Did you miss the first parts of this series? No worries. Here they are. Part 1, part 2, part 3, part 4.

ABOUT THE WRITER

Corey is the editor of Simple Marriage as well as a licensed marriage & family therapist. While he has a Ph.D. in Family Therapy, he only occasionally likes to be called doctor. If you enjoyed this post, please subscribe so you don't miss any future posts.