confessions of a bad neighbor

-by Christy Fitzwater 

I smile at my neighbors every time I drive by them –but I’ve made little effort to get to know them.  That’s the ugly truth.  I drive by them on my way to church, but I don’t know their names. 

I took a daring action a few days ago.  I was driving down my street when I saw my neighbor from two doors down pulling weeds by her driveway.  

So I stopped the car and rolled down the window.  (Are missionaries in Africa as brave as this?) 

I said, Hi, I’m a pathetic neighbor and always drive by without even talking to you.  I don’t even know you’re name! 

Stacie, she replied. 

I’m Christy. 

Christine? 

No, Christy. 

I proceeded to ask about her kids.  Her oldest will be a senior next year.  I told her, My daughter just graduated last weekend.  If you need sympathy next year, you can talk to me! 

We chatted for a few more minutes, and I drove away.  I wonder if Stacie knows Jesus. 

I’d like to find out. 

Do you know your neighbors?