I spend a lot of time in neighborhoods. Recently, I came across this very creative use of a traffic island.

In the middle of the island, there was a board with a book swap on the top shelf, a variety of announcements and a couple benches for neighbors to spend time. In front, there was a checkerboard built into the concrete. There were even wooden checkers!

This made me think of the giftedness of natural connectors in neighborhoods. With simple curiosity and introductions they pay attention to people and invite others to be in position to meet.

The next move is up to the people but the opportunity is created, similar to this wonderful space.