I enjoyed the most amazing experience of community today right here in River City:  Portland Oregon.

Sunday Parkways are events every summer that unite people together walking, biking, rollerblading and other creative means to move the body through town.  The streets are organized, mapped out and blocked off for safe and easy travel.  The map is generally arranged to allow pedestrians and bikers to stop in each of the local parks for rest, relaxation, refreshments and fun.  It’s a party!

The camaraderie is palpable and satisfying.  Everyone is cruising through an atmosphere of fun, sun, giving and receiving.  Many vendors give freebies.  There is music, food, treats and information galore.  And as if this wasn’t festive enough, many of the homeowners and neighbors do the same thing on their own “parkway”.  The hosting neighbors often will provide candy, treats, lemonade and water for all.  Some have donation jars and others just give to give.  It’s also nice that water hoses are set up to mist and spray those who are willing to be cooled off.

There are no unhappy Sunday Parkway participants!  

It reminds me what is possible with community!  There are tons of volunteers that help make it possible.  The city of Portland provide police to help manage traffic and keep everyone safe.

It builds faith in mankind.  It allows us to all give our best gifts even if it’s a smile and a grateful heart. 

Perhaps the best thing I witnessed was tons of kids that are growing up thinking this is normal “neighborhood behavior”.

For example, I met my neighbors from my block at the “snow cone” stand and got to be part of Abi’s life as she learns to ride a bike!  These moments are priceless!

The following are a few more of my favorite memories:

Generosity of all the volunteers in the heat with smiles and pointing arms of where to go.

Creative misting machines...it was HOT today!

Young entrepreneurs selling lemonade and cookies.

Funky costumes and cool people that help keep Portland weird.  I love those people and aspire to contribute one day.

Handing out flyers to wonderful people who are so engaging and curious about raw food and the “Transition Your Nutrition” class I’m leading on Saturday.

Police officers being alert and on duty in their polyester uniforms in the blazing heat.  I know how hot polyester is I used to referee basketball! 

The cutest little girl cutting up the street the smallest tricycle I’ve ever seen!  No one could count the number of revolutions her poor legs would complete today.  

Multiple neighbors playing their favorite albums for the street to hear.  Yes, Portland still has records!  Retro is in.  

This day changed me.  I have a stronger appreciation for People, Portland and Police.  My heart is full of gratitude, sunshine and possibilities of community! 

Community is coming y’all.  Buy your ticket and get on the train.  Build the foundation and rapport before you need it.  Because someone may be needing you first.

The truth is we all need community.  It nourishes our soul to be connected.  We thrive when we offer our gifts and share ourselves with others.

May you be the seed of community and bloom where you are.  May this gift return a hundred fold to allow you to experience the grace of being one.