We parrots are a sociable bunch. Most of us aspire to that old adage that “birds of a feather flock together.” And it works well for us; we’re not meant to be solitary or alone, and that’s why I’ve developed such a strong bond with my owner and his family. We’re there for one another during both good times and bad. And I have to admit that along with Lucy, -the ancient Labrador, -and the two chickens outside, we form something of a special community here.
And it’s when we become part of a healthy community that we begin to feel peace and contentment inside. A sense of belonging, togetherness, and knowing that we have a support network around us, is very important for our mental health and wellbeing. So, I was interested to read that the government’s Community Life Survey has identified the Isles of Scilly as the “friendliest” place of all to live in England. Yes, they came top out of 269 different local authority areas. Apparently, 90% of Scillonians said that they chatted to their neighbours on a regular basis, and fewer than 3% said that they felt lonely either ‘often’ or ‘sometimes.’ Overall, there seems to be a real sense of ‘togetherness’ amongst the islands’ population of 2,300 people.
Of course, with humans being humans, there will always be the odd exception. The ancient, battered minibus which provides the only bus service on St. Mary’s proudly displays a sign reading: “A hostile and unreliable service.” Yes, there’s always one!
The Scillies offer a pace of life, which is slower, less stressful and less complicated than on the mainland, helping a more friendly community spirit to flourish. And of course, Jesus Himself stressed the importance of ‘community’; throughout the Gospels, He spends His days alongside the Apostles, -celebrating, mourning and worshipping with them, so setting an example for us all to follow. Jesus’ life here on Earth was all about love, mutual support, humility and shared spiritual growth, and these are all things which need to be at the very heart of every Christian community, (as well as elsewhere!)
Who cares if humans and Labradors and chickens are different to parrots; we’re all living one life together; we’re all having a shared experience, so it’s in all of our interests to get on and to be there for one another through good times and bad…...
“The family is a community of love where each of us learns to relate to others and to the world around us.”
(Pope Francis)
“Every Christian community must realise that not only do the weak need the strong, but also that the strong cannot exist without the weak.”
(Dietrich Bonhoeffer)
“…...and, ‘Love your neighbour as yourself’.
(Luke 10: 27b)
“…...so there should be no division in the body, but that it’s parts should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honoured, every part rejoices with it.”
(1 Corinthians 12:26)
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfil the law of Christ.”
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