How do you define community?

The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines community as a unified body of individuals with common interests living in a particular area or a group of people with a common characteristic or interest living together within a larger society.

We often think of our community as the people who live in proximity to us and that is certainly a valid definition. In this definition, we have common interests but may not all agree about how to accomplish tasks and ideals.

Community can also be defined as an agriculture community across differing productions and practices. Or an education community or any number of other areas that bring people together with similar ideas. However, it still doesn’t mean that we will all agree on how to accomplish goals and ideals. Actually, I would challenge that we need to have differing viewpoints to make our community stronger. At the same time, we have to address those differences with respect and a willingness to truly understand another’s point of view.

I am blessed to be a part of a nationwide community related to our family’s cattle breed. It doesn’t mean that I am dismissive of other breeds but enjoy the people and activities in the particular one we support. I have wonderful friendships from coast to coast because of my willingness to be involved.

I am also a part of a state-wide community of extension agents with varying experiences, education, and goals. Working together across our program areas provides better research and information for the communities in which we live. 

I am involved with a couple of church organizations that are part of my very local community. Having an investment in helping these organizations to make decisions and provide support for one another is an incredible blessing. 

In all of my own communities, we don’t always agree! But I appreciate when we can step back from our personal focus and look at a bigger picture. What is best for this particular community? How does a decision that I or this group makes impact other related decisions? Is it easy – absolutely not! Is it necessary – you bet!

My challenge for you is to consider the communities of which you are a part. This might be the physical town or neighborhood that you live in or it may be a part of an organization or even your place of employment. How can your involvement make that community stronger? Is your involvement simply critical comment without solutions or a willingness to help? 

I know that I am grateful for the many “communities” that I am involved in but each of these wouldn’t really matter if I wasn’t willing to listen, learn, and share ideas.

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!

Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent for the Cottonwood District, Barton County office. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth and Development related questions email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call 620-793-1910.