Fire is fascinating – especially when you are in your parent’s lap, on the sidewalk in front of your house, after dark and just before bed.

When I was visiting a friend in Leslieville, Toronto, Canada he told me about his neighbor Mark Pemberton’s weekly summer time fire performance – it looked like people were gathering in the middle of the block.

And just as the dusk became dark the show began. 

First there was fire eating from a short stick. Then fire on a ball at the end of two swinging, circling chains. And the finale was a 6 foot long baton with fire on each end. 

Ten adults and 8 children cheered, questioned and clapped.

This neighborhood conviviality is what mints Social Capital in Leslieville. 

I asked my friend if he knew how  Mr. Pemberton had become motivated to entertain – yes, to relax.

Relaxing by engaging and amusing your young and older neighbors – a very positive concept.