African saying

I believe it in the sense that "village" is representative of ones entire family, aunts, uncles, parents, grandparents, cousins, brothers, sisters, etc. as well as those within their religious congregations (if the family is religiously inclined). It would entail people with similar goals for the child, all who share a love for the child and cares about his/her well being. I do not think that it literally means the people in the neighborhood. I would not want my neighbors taking it upon themselves to try and raise or instill ideas into my child.

I love that saying. I was raised in a tight knit neighborhood where everyone watched everyone. It had its advantages and disadvantages, but all-in-all, I think it's good for the kids. Escpecially with dual-working parents, I think a "village" mentatiliy is awesome.