Yeah, and I would add that even if OP does get a small token of appreciation for their neighbour, but it would be good to emphasise that OP doesn’t feel like the gift has paid their neighbour back for their help, but just a little extra, and that the neighbour should let OP know in future if there’s any way for them to help out.
I say this as someone who often explicitly prefers to not be paid back for kindnesses done unto others. I’d prefer someone to pay me back in kindness in the future. After all, if I’m in a position to help someone out, then it’s likely that I’m not in particular need of receiving extra kindness at that point in time. However, if I remain friends with someone for long enough, inevitably our positions will end up being reversed at some point. It’s nice to feel like I’m a part of a dynamic little equilibrium.
And if there never comes an opportunity to pay me back, then paying it forward works for me too. None of us can escape living under late stage capitalism, but small acts of community building feel like a hint of an escape
I’ve heard good things about Altberg. Apparently they make boots for the police. I heard of them from a friend who was on the police, and loved her boots so much she sprung for their bespoke service.