But she also developed a habit of treating disagreement as disrespect.
When someone questioned a proposal, she accused them of opposing progress.
When a homeowner requested written clarification about a rule, she complained that people were becoming overly argumentative.
And when someone refused to participate in a voluntary community activity, she implied that their lack of generosity was damaging neighborhood harmony.
For a while, those habits caused little more than irritation.
Then Linda noticed Devon's swimming pool.
The first conversation took place during a neighborhood barbecue.
Devon had attended because his next-door neighbors invited him, and he thought it would be pleasant to meet more residents.
He was standing near the clubhouse entrance when Linda approached carrying a glass of lemonade.
"Mr. Carter. I've been meaning to speak with you."
Devon smiled politely.
"About what?"
"Your beautiful pool."
He looked surprised.
"What about it?"
Linda smiled.
"I understand it's one of the largest residential pools in the subdivision."
Devon shrugged.
"It's a nice pool."
She leaned closer.
"We've been discussing ways to expand the community's recreational offerings."
He nodded.
"Sounds good."
Her smile widened.
"Exactly. And I think your backyard could become a wonderful asset."
Devon frowned.
"I'm not sure I understand."
Linda gestured toward the neighborhood.
"We could organize swimming sessions, wellness afternoons, perhaps private water-aerobics classes for residents."
He stared.
"At my house?"
"Of course."
For a moment, he thought she was joking.
Then he saw her expression.
She was completely serious.
Devon shook his head.
"I appreciate the idea, but I'm not interested in opening my pool to the neighborhood."
Linda's smile faltered.
"Not even occasionally?"
"No."
She laughed softly.
"You're deciding awfully quickly."
Devon remained polite.
"I bought the house because I wanted a private backyard."
Linda studied him.
Then said, "You know, community living requires some flexibility."
Devon nodded.
"I agree. But flexibility doesn't mean unlimited access to someone else's property."
Her expression cooled.
For several seconds, she looked at him as though he'd failed a test.
Then she smiled again.
"Well, perhaps we'll revisit the conversation."
Devon shook his head.
"I don't think my answer will change."
Linda walked away without another word.
He returned to the barbecue, assuming the matter was finished.
He was wrong.
Two weeks later, Devon returned from work and found three women relaxing beside his pool.
One was sitting on a lounge chair.
Another had her feet in the water.
The third was preparing to swim.
Devon stopped beside the sliding glass door.
For several seconds, he couldn't understand how strangers had entered his private backyard.
Then he stepped outside.
"Excuse me. Can I help you?"