A BIT ABOUT MARY

I have been interested in Co-operative living for at least 15 years. From time to time I’ve surfed the Net and always been amazed at the growing interest, variety of models and projects of various sizes and stages. At one time a few years ago I visited about 3 or 4 of the established Co-Housing complexes in Vancouver. All were basically urban, individual living units with a common room for community activities. To me they were more apartment style with some built in activities to create community. Somehow, while interesting they didn’t completely satisfy my vision.

Over the years a number of friends have expressed interest and there has been discussion but mostly centered on the waste of living independently particularly for singles. While there was an element of “why don’t we...” there was never the momentum to drive it forward.

Then, last spring quite unexpectedly, while watching a film society documentary, the idea ignited. I emailed a few friends who had expressed some interest at various times and we had our first meeting in March 2011. The group shifted over the first few months with people exploring commitments, readiness, etc., new people considering our plans and project vision and trying us on. Gradually we have settled into our group of 7.

Among my friends and family the idea has always generated a positive, enthusiastic response. Not uncommonly a sense of admiration at “having the guts” to commit to something like this. I realize the commitment is big. Someone said, “It’s like marrying 7 people”. Yikes! Who would do that? Following the laughter at this absurdity I think to myself that we are probably preparing better than most engaged couples. We have done our research and are aware of the barriers to cooperative living success and we are diligent at discussing and crafting policies and protocols for the tough and testy situations.

Personally, I am an extraverted person currently living alone. I am aware that there is easiness in this arrangement but it’s not what I truly value and I prefer to live my life with some chutzpah, particularly regarding things I stand for or want to stand for. Relationships, community and interdependence have always been important. Increasingly I add sustainability, the environment and living with a more conscious footprint to the values cooperative living will provide me.

I’ve never been a Gardner and while I’ve done my share of canning and jamming over the years it’s not something I had any desire to maintain once my nest was empty. Yet when we talk about “our garden” and food preparation and preservation I am excited to revisit this and learn these skills. I am not unaware of the projected food shortages and safe food policies. I value my health and safe food is increasingly important.

I am a grandmother and I love the idea of my family having this extended sense of intentional family. We speak of creating an inclusive environment for our friends and family and I envision our home being somewhat of a Hub with good conversation, laughter and music.

This has been an interesting, exciting and sometimes frustrating few months. And we move forward with increasing trust and commitment. 2012 will be a very important year for the RareBirds.

Mary