We've heard the discussion about how Vancouverites suffer from a reported epidemic of loneliness and isolation. This notion (of which I am a firm skeptic) has triggered a policy initiative from Vancouver's ruling Vision party. So what does civic engagement actually mean to the party? Sadly for Vancouver, it already equals less access to city hall, reduced citizen involvement in shaping our city, and a top-down approach to decision-making.

The web of community connections do not only happen on the street. They happen in a multitude of organizations, gathering spaces, activities and educational institutions. Today, we're even connected through the 140 characters Twitter allots us. If you're alone in Vancouver, it's your choice.