Okay, let’s talk about this word “community.” It’s like kale – seems healthy and wholesome, but how often do you actually eat it? Now, politicians and officials? They’re obsessed. They’ll say things like, “We need to listen to the community,” as if the “community” is some sort of oracle with all the answers.
But what is this mythical “community” they keep talking about? Is it the people who live in your apartment building? The folks who root for your favorite sports team? Or is it the Facebook group for knitting enthusiasts? The truth is, “community” means whatever those in power want it to mean at the moment.
One of the communities that I consider myself a part of is the town of Bowie. This is reflected in the fact that I take pride in showing people this city. I feel insulted when people say awful things about it. Hearing its name pronounced correctly is such a rare relief. And I understand that there’s an Old Bowie with a capital O and a new Bowie, and there’s a big difference between the two.
I attend cultural events in the city, and there are many. I love the parks (did you know that Bowie has over 39 miles of hiking/biking trails?), the Bowie Playhouse Theater, the Bowie Performing Arts Center and who doesn’t love summer outdoor concerts at Allen Pond Park? History buffs love Bowie Railway Station, Huntington Museum, and the Belaire Mansion and Stable Museums where you can go horse riding. On top of it all, there’s a year-round ice skating rink. What’s not to love?
My decision to participate in this city and its various going-ons has made me a part of the Bowie community. It’s not just a matter of where you live or work. It is possible to live and work in Bowie without doing these things and without being part of this community. There are many people from Bowie who now live elsewhere, yet still actively have conversations about what it means to be a part of the Bowie community.
Whatever your “community” looks like, embrace it. Because at its best, that’s where we find support, inspiration, and a little bit of joy in this crazy world. So put down that overused dictionary definition, and go find your people – the ones who get you, flaws and all.
Although I’m not a native Marylander, this is my second home and I love it here, especially Bowie, where I’ve lived for over 20 years. So what is community? For me, it’s more of a feeling than a place, and I strongly believe that you don’t have to live in a neighborhood to be part of a community.