Where the Heart Is

I was watching a movie last night called "Where the Heart Is".  It made me think about how things had changed.  In the movie, the have a person who does a welcome wagon.  Younger people may have never heard of such a thing.  It used to be that when you moved into a new neighbor hood, someone would come to your home after a week or two (time to let you get a little settled).  They would bring with them an assortment of items.  Discount coupons, area attractions, maps, things that would welcome you to the new neighborhood and help you get aquainted with the area.
I also remember my mom having coffee with her neighbors when I was very young.  We lived on a military base at the time, but I don't think that was the only reason.  I think 25 or 30 years ago, people new their neighbors.  Now it seems like, except for an occasional hello when passing each other on the street, we don't know each other.  I would like to see things take a few steps back to those times.  I would like to know my neighbors.  I wonder if it will ever happen. I think the world would be a better place.  I think communities would be stronger.  I would not trade the technology, but can't we have both?  Lets try.