Does your community have soul?

I love the title of Gallup poll’s research project on emotional attachment to place, “Soul of the Community” and I'm inspired by the finding that residents' emotional attachment to the Detroit area increased this past year.  Good news given the current state of affairs, but not too surprising when you consider what's behind it, people's passion for place and commitment to community.  After all, community is more than a city’s geographic boundary and a “home” is more than the structure you live in.  Community is where you feel connected, where you live your most important moments and make the most lasting memories.  My community is Brighton and I love buying cinnamon rolls from the downtown bakery with my husband and sons before we stroll the Farmer’s market on Saturday mornings.  These little moments create an emotional tie to our community, and the simple interactions I have with my neighbors while I do it transforms “me” to “we.”  I’ll remember the joy a visit to our neighborhood park brings to my son’s face forever, but I can’t recall my current millage rate.  My community has soul and it is priceless.  What gives your community soul?