Community Quote by Robert McAfee Brown
“How does one keep from "growing old inside"? Surely only in community. The only way to make friends with time is to stay friends with people… Taking community seriously not only gives us the companionship we need, it also relieves us of the notion that we are indispensable.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Community and Aging, Robert McAfee Brown, 1970
Aging is avoided by staying connected with others; community provides purpose and reduces feeling of indispensability.
In simple terms: Stay connected to avoid feeling old inside.
Cultivate relationships and community ties.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- friendships
- volunteering
- group activities
- support groups
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you nurture community in daily life?
- What ties make you feel indispensable?
Community alone cannot replace personal health and self‑care.