I am low-income and I am a homeowner. Pause in your reading a minute and notice how you think I keep my home, my yard, what kind of neighbor I am — just based on my income. I used to live across the street from someone who must have been at least middle-income, based on the value of the home. What are your expectations of this homeowner? ÿ

According to that local paper, he had a restraining order against him — he was not allowed to enter a nearby business because he was harassing the staff. He shot illegal fireworks off in July; he poured household toxic waste into the ground on the unpaved alley. His dog (who was given a racist name) roamed the neighborhood, defecated in other people’s yards, and threatened pedestrians minding their own business. ÿ

I have friends who live in the Northridge area of Ames. Just based on the cost of the homes in that area, I assume everyone who owns there is at least middle-income. I have read in the Tribune some scary things about homeowners in Northridge who have had run-ins with the law. Then there are the rumors I hear from my furnace maintenance guy, who says his company has trouble with Northridge residents not paying their bills.

What are your prejudices about income? ÿWhat fears do your economic prejudices come out of? ÿI think I am a good neighbor, despite what my economic status seems to imply to some people.

I know other low-income homeowners who I would classify as good neighbors. Not everyone would agree that I am a “good neighbor,” because that is a very subjective thing.

My prairie grasses are your weeds. Your classic car is my junker. Your ability to handle your concerns in an open and respectful way is my “good neighbor.” To live in community, we must learn to live with differences. ÿ

Anjeanette Perkins

Ames