The people in my neighborhood

I grew up moving a lot, but mostly living on the corner of two streets. We generally had big front yards and bigger back yards with boulevards on the side by the street. The alley behind the back yard was significant, that was where garbage pick up was. Houses were surrounded by large trees for shade and we took all of this privacy for granted.

Now I live in a small two room apartment. One room is an open plan living room, kitchen. The other is a bedroom. It is ground level, meaning no steps and has a large down sloping front lawn out front, I don't really know my neighbors, nor do I really want to, but I love them. They are a multi-ethnic group of people who share two huge traits.  They seem to be good parents and are definitely good neighbors.

We nod at each other, even occasionally wave at each other, but nobody lies in wait to complain, or talk as they go about their business. They keep up their yards and homes, keep down their music, and mostly drive as if they are aware there are other people on the street.

No one, except for perhaps one Caucasian family across the street seems to feel entitled in any way. They all appear to be aware of how their actions affect others and try to adjust to the times we live in.

I have never lived anywhere I loved more.

My apartment is architecturally interesting with high ceilings and nice fixtures. My view is pleasant. Sometimes I do hear the odd bit of music drifting quietly into my life, but I have to strain to make it out. I also, occasionally, hear the sound of human voices or television muted by walls and choice.

I think a vague curiosity makes good neighbors. We don't impinge, but we aren't bothered by the fact that there are living breathing people around us.