I write because my heart tells me to. My first comment is dogs bark, kids scream, that's life, that's family. Unless neighbors spend time in each others homes, they are unaware of what others hear and see. In most neighborhoods, the homes have very small backyards and most have pools.

This is where the families live, play and entertain, and they may not be aware that the pool is like a microphone that magnifies voices, barking dogs, the music that faces the pool and laughter.

We should be respectful of each other and get to know how our actions affect each other.

A month ago a grandpa spent four days putting together a swing set for his adorable little grandson's second birthday. There was pounding, pounding and more noise, but it was exciting. The anticipation we had knowing this little guy was about to explore a new adventure made by his grandpa thrilled us.

Now we hear Daddy say "whee, whee, whee!" pushing his son on the swing set. This you can't replace. The negativity brewing in neighborhoods over barking dogs and screaming kids is just the beginning of losing the joys. Stop making the negative "911 neighborhood alert" calls. Gossip hurts everyone.

Stop the back biting. It solves nothing. What happens when something serious happens and an angry neighbor turns a blind eye?

Respect one another, extend a generous helping hand, and "love your neighbor as you love yourself." An eye for an eye makes for a very blind neighborhood. Roxann Barr Simi Valley