A wise man once said, "Good fences make good neighbors." Perhaps the first person to make that declaration had difficult neighbors, but it's more likely he understood the concept of boundaries. It's just easier to get along with the person next door if everybody understands where "yours" ends and "mine" begins.
That's where a good neighbor fence comes in. We all know what a fence is, but what in the world is a good neighbor fence?
Not an Ordinary Fence
Like any fence, a good neighbor fence is a boundary or a property line. But this kind of boundary fence is atypical because it isn't one-sided, either in concept or design. You won't go camping for a weekend and come back to a good neighbor fence between your house and the house next to you.
So what makes this boundary different?
It is the Neighborly Thing To Do
This boundary line fence is made with neighbors in mind. Think about friendship. Certain rules are followed. For example, you expect a friend to be honest when they talk to you. The honesty will (hopefully) have kindness mixed in with it, of course. But we like to go to our friends and get straight feedback when we are confused about something or are trying to make a decision.
Well, if one person is thinking of putting up a good neighbor fence, that person will be willing to take a few extra steps.
What Exactly is a Good Neighbor Fence?
It is a boundary marker that is shared. The word "fence" makes it sound like it will be made of wood or wire, but it can just as easily be a hedge.
What Steps Should Be Taken
Don't Get Lost In Legalese
Remember, it is a good neighbor fence, put up to keep the peace. Ensure you have proper fence etiquette for issues such as who pays for what crystal clear but try not to overwhelm the friendship. As Benjamin Franklin said, "Love your neighbor, yet don't pull down your hedge."
