The Narratives – Mohamed Miah

What does it mean to be a good neighbour? For me, it boils down to one simple rule: live and let live. It’s a balance between respect, boundaries, and a sense of community—without invading anyone’s personal space.

We all need a peaceful place to retreat after a long day, and that’s why, in my view, noise control is essential. I’m not asking for complete silence, but I do believe in respecting the hours between 9 pm and 9 am, giving each other the chance to wind down at night and ease into the day. Life is busy enough, and the last thing anyone needs is loud disturbances in the evening or early morning.

That said, I do appreciate a sense of neighbourly kindness—whether it’s a friendly greeting, lending a hand when carrying something heavy, or even exchanging a bit of food. Growing up in a South Asian household, sharing food is second nature, and I’m happy to continue that tradition. It’s a simple gesture, but it keeps the spirit of community alive without being overbearing.

But there’s more to being a good neighbour than just keeping to yourself. I always try to look out for those around me, making sure my neighbours are doing okay. If they’re going through hardship, I’ll do my best to help, whether that’s by offering support, lending a hand, or just being there when they need it.

As Prophet Muhammad ﷺ reminded us: “He is not a believer whose stomach is filled while his neighbour goes hungry.” (Sunan al-Kubrā) This Hadith speaks to the importance of community and looking out for one another, especially in times of need.

This belief extends to my ancestral neighbours in Bangladesh as well. Once a year, I try to give charity to those who are struggling, whether they are poor or dealing with illness. It’s my way of keeping the connection alive with my roots and giving back to those who are less fortunate, even if they’re miles away.

Ultimately, being a good neighbour doesn’t mean we have to be in each other’s pockets. It’s about understanding the importance of space, respecting boundaries, and offering help when needed—without imposing. A good neighbour creates a sense of comfort just by knowing they’re there, but they also understand that everyone needs their space to retreat to at the end of the day.

What are your thoughts? How do you balance being a good neighbour while maintaining your own personal space?