Community more than just a word

Politicians, citizens, and people from all demographics use the word “community” every day, but America lacks a cohesive definition. Merriam-Webster defines community as “a group of people who live in the same area (such as a city, town, or neighborhood).” Still, the connotation of community involves more than just similar people. It signifies a sense of unity in times of distress.

School systems embody an extraordinarily personal level of community. Bucky Horton, NC’s principal, crafts his own idea of community.

“One thing you will hear me say in common is connectedness, I think all of us are better when we are connected to our school,” Horton said.

In today’s society, with civil strife at its height and political polarization higher than ever, the idea of connectivity gains importance. Regardless of other opinions or society’s divisions, communities still come together when in dire need.

The recent passing of fellow Warrior Tomari Alijah Jackson represents the true definition of community. School continued as required, yet a YouCaring fundraiser for his family quickly raised over $13,000 in 3 weeks.  The NC community came together to make Tomari’s family as comfortable as possible in a difficult situation. School days and life must continue, but Tomari will forever live on as an eternal member of the Warrior community.

A similar idea carries over into local government. Kennesaw mayor Derek Easterling voiced his opinion on community: “Being a good citizen is about being involved, it’s not about just about voting. It’s about being proactive, you see a need, help it, you see a neighbor help them,” Easterling said.

A community stems further than just a school setting: it becomes the city and the local government. As such an important aspect, community members must increase involvement in the government.

“Students need to be educated on government, city government, and the leadership opportunities they have,” Easterling said.

Civil education for younger generations inspires leaders for the future. Any person can make a difference, even at the most personal level. Whether volunteering at a homeless shelter or helping to create an art project for a public park, civil education makes a difference in society.

Georgia Senator Johnny Isakson explains the importance of civil education and how it directly affects his job in Washington D.C. .

“Try to get involved with activities in your school and community and take action with a team. No matter what, follow your interests and do what comes naturally as your passion,” Isakson said.

If NC can directly affect Senator Isakson and the Georgia community, then everyone’s community matters. The average person may not see it, but every person makes a difference. Every act of kindness adds up to see a world full of unity, not divisiveness.

“When you’re making a decision you have to know its right with you and it’s right with your community,” Easterling said.

The thought of righteousness resonates within the community of NC, Kennesaw, and Georgia alike. If actual change in this lifetime stays the goal, then thinking must change. If every single person in America works in their communities, the United States of America will not only flourish, but rise to greater heights than ever before.

Communities incorporate more than just one person. They include neighbors, teachers, firemen, policemen, politicians, and more. All people in a community connect to help each other and better themselves. Community holds unity even in times of great strife, and community sticks together through thick and thin to better the world.

To see what the local community had to say, view our Storify.