The terms micro and macro are normally associated with economic activities. They tend to distinguish between the 'smaller' and the 'bigger' picture.

It is precisely because of this difference that I decided to write about the micro realities of our society. Not so long ago people residing in a particular locality were normally considered to be known to each other and by each other. Trying to find someone was rather easy. Nicknames, in certain localities were the key to a vast array of information. Mentioning a nickname meant you will be led to the family of those particular individuals. Asking about someone through his family nickname led to the whole history of the family.

This is no more.

We are now living in a society where, in many instances, we do not even know our next door neighbours. This does not happen in all localities. In the smaller villages it is still possible to know your neighbours.

A totally different reality exists in the larger localities. In areas where apartments have taken over the traditional houses those living in apartment blocks do not even know the residents of the same block (forget the legal obligation to have residents' associations for all blocks). 

It is no longer the case that when someone mentions a particular locality that he or she is also giving an indication of the probable occupation of that particular person. Certain localities have to face major difficulties when it comes to integration.

Any attempt to plan a process of integration must start from the understanding of the different realities that exist close to each other. The better this understanding, the bigger are the chances of peaceful co-existence.

In those areas where this understanding is lacking, it will be very hard to co-exist. Naturally peaceful co-existence will be even more difficult.

Generic statements do not lead anywhere. On the contrary it is probable that such statements will only lead to social confusion.

For a successful macro co-existence it is extremely important that the micro realities are understood.

Irrespective of personal opinions and tendencies, we must understand that the development and success of a society depends on the success of the different elements of this same society.

The sum of the different micro realities do not, necessarily, add up to the macro realities. However, for any chance of a macro success, the micro realities must be understood.

Those forming part of these realities have to feel accepted by the others. In an ideal situation all should feel accepted, and all should be ready to accept the other realities.

Unless this is explained, emphasized, and accepted, it is quite probable that social problems will mushroom. Every one of us forms part of a micro reality. 

Whether this reality is limited to our block of flats, to our neighbourhood, or to the whole locality where we live, we must accept the fact that others will be sharing that reality. Besides that, we are all shaping this very same reality.

If we pretend others accept us, we have to make sure that we accept others. That is why the micro social realities are (or should be) the key to a successful macro reality of which we all form part.

Censu Galea is a former Nationalist Party minister