The above point kind of says it all. But it is worth it to discuss the positive elements of knowing your neighbors. When you become part of a community, you feel a sense of belonging and community. You bond with your neighbors over shared values and activities. You become closer with your own families, as well as those of the people in your neighborhood. You become invested in a shared history. You can laugh together, and protect each other. You can ask for a favor, or return one by lending a hand when a community member is in need. If a family member of yours were to become sick, would you not be touched by your neighbors coming over and preparing dinner for you one night to give you a break? This is unlikely to happen in New York City, that is for sure. But it is likely to happen in Hempstead. Knowing your neighbors is more than just about home security it is about the quality of life that is created by living in a community. That is the upstate advantage.