Dear Editor,
For as long as we’ve been around as humans being we have sat together to share stories and experiences. We told stories around open fires, recounted dreams, shared a cup of coffee and stories of the day and generally felt comforted to be in the world together. When the world became fearsome, we came together. When the world called us to explore its edges, we journeyed together. What ever we did, we did it together. I don’t believe human beings have ever really wanted to be alone, or were meant to converse solely by means of a wireless connection via phone or computer.
I wonder if you believe as I believe. That simple, honest human conversation can change our world. Not mediation, negotiation, problem-solving, debate or public meeting. Simple truthful conversation where we each have a chance to speak, we each feel heard, and we each listen well.
I wonder if you believe, as I do, that this world needs changing. I wonder what it would be like to listen to each other again about what disturbs and troubles us? About what gives us energy and hope? About our yearnings, our fears, our prayers, our children? How learning who our neighbors are, or the common interests we share, can open the door to opportunity for all.
This is an open invitation to participate in conversation. To notice what is going on, to clarify our thoughts and experience, and to begin speaking with those around us. What do you see? What are you experiencing in your life and the lives of those you care about? What do you wish were different?
The North Valley Family Center (formally the Local Living Family Center) in Florence will hold a Community Conversation Project on Monday, November 14 from 6 to 8 p.m. We will be providing a main dish, feel free to pot luck a favorite food, or not.
Allison Dunne, Program Coordinator
North Valley Family Center