The success or failure of The Other Side Village depends on the culture. Home design, amenities, location, etc., are all secondary to the kind of values that drive the community. So the first thing we did after deciding to build the Village was declare the beliefs that we know from experience will help this to be the kind of place that is both welcoming and demanding – the kind of social system that everyone needs in order to both feel at home and grow as a person. Here are the 9 beliefs that inform everything we do, everything we have built and are continuing to build.
1. Love
The motivating power for everything we do is love. Love is action, not feeling. It means putting others first. Love is our bridge to the other side.
2. Family
We are a family. All lasting happiness in life is based on our capacity for connection. Most suffering is from the lack of true family.
3. Hope
We are living evidence that everyone’s future is not limited by their past. We live in hope, not history.
4. 200% Accountability
We are all responsible for creating the Village. We shoulder that responsibility every day by living the standard we agree to and helping those around us to live them as well.
5. GROWTH
We refuse to accept the discrimination of low expectations. We believe that everyone has the capacity to grow and contribute. Growth means unlearning old ways. Growth cannot be forced, it has to be chosen.
6. Each One, Teach One
Our individual growth as well as our Village strength comes through teaching and learning. We believe that when A helps B, A gets better.
7. Pride in Work
Taking pride in our work is a powerful expression of self-respect. Work is a fundamental principle of happiness. We create our own sense of dignity. We work together to create the homes, lives, and Villages we choose.
8. Self-Reliance
We are self-reliant not by going it alone, but by giving more than we take.
9. Faith Friendly
We support each other in any beliefs that help our Neighbors lead a healthier and more connected life. We invite all to bring who they are to our family in a way that inspires us.
These 9 beliefs are guiding us as we build the Village and beyond. When we keep our focus on these fundamental principles, we will create a strong community.
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THIS!! So in awe! I would like to learn more about your community. Very grateful
To be seeing this today as one year folds into another. The HOPE I see here inspires me to move into the new year looking for the good in every day! I would love to receive any news of your journey as you go!!