A sense of space, or community, is important to everyone. Community can mean many things. It can  be the family, a church or organization, a school, the workplace, or the neighborhood. For most, being a part of a community is essential to  a feeling of security and  belonging.  Being a part of a community dispels loneliness and gives individuals  someone or something to relate too. Unfortunately,  in today's society, a person can be surrounded by a crowd, and yet experience deep loneliness. While it is true that many inflict this loneliness on themselves by  trying to appear  perfect or invulnerable, we must realize that the only way that true hospitality can be expressed is by taking part in other's lives and opening your life to them.

Ours is a transient society. Because of life situations, many find themselves far away from family and friends. When someone new enters your community, make an effort to get to know them. Newcomers need a smile, a sincere welcome, and an offer to help them become familiar with their surroundings. In order to really feel a part of the "team", a new employee must be "shown the ropes" through the  encouragement and assistance of more experienced staff members. Being courteous and helpful to co-workers and customers alike sets a positive tone for the workplace.

Entering a new school, particularly if it is a large one,  can be a traumatic experience for a student. Encourage your child to consider how he or she would feel in such a new environment. A smile or "Hi, you're new here aren't you?" or  "Would you like to sit with us?" from fellow classmates can work wonders for a student who is new and uncertain. Students need time to become acquainted. Snap judgments based on what someone wears, where they live, gossip, or if they are "different" is not conducive to learning about the individual. Being  sincere and hospitable eases times of transition. Young people need to be taught to demonstrate civility and good manners to each other as well as adults.

Children should not fear meeting and talking with new acquaintances, but they do need to discern between  people of good character and those who might not have their best interests in mind. Discuss with  your children  how they can politely refuse gifts or favors and quickly tell someone they trust if they feel uncomfortable or threatened.. Help your child practice this discernment  also about movies, programs on television, video games and the internet. Just as you monitor your children's friends, you should  also take care about  whom or what  enters your home through  forms of entertainment.

Show special hospitality to the senior adults in your community. As they grow older, their needs for transportation, meals, and companionship change, particularly if their children or other family members are not available. Take your children with you if possible during the time you spend with senior adults so that they  may learn compassion and hospitality for all ages.

 It is necessary, however, that one be "thrifty" in their  hospitality toward others. This includes being thrifty with your time and finances.  This thriftiness prevents hospitality from becoming  an extravagance or irresponsibility. Target  your generosity to others'  real needs. Choose carefully who you bring into  your life in person and through entertainment.  Do not attempt to impress others or buy favors with what you do for them. Balance your desire to be hospitable so that you remain focused and effective.

If you would like more information about the Prattville-Autauga Character Coalition and how you may become involved, contact Boo Rogers, Executive Director.