The Kind of Gathering I Want to Host

I think about gatherings the way some people think about meals. The details matter, and so does the feeling people carry out the door. When I host, I want the room to feel easy to walk into.

For me that starts with clarity. People should know what to expect, where to go, and what the evening will ask of them, which is usually very little. An invitation works best when it lowers the pressure instead of adding to it.

I also want room for different kinds of people. Some guests love a big conversation. Others would rather listen, or talk with one person in a corner. A good gathering makes space for all of that without keeping score. That is the spirit behind my community events.

Food, music, and a comfortable space help, and so does the tone set by the host. I try to greet people the way I would want to be greeted. It is a small thing that is not small.

As I reflect on why I keep hosting, I come back to the same hope. I want people to leave feeling a little more connected than when they arrived. Everything else is decoration.

What kinds of gatherings do you host?

Community evenings, sound meditations, and seasonal celebrations, mostly at the Empower House Community Gathering Space in North Phoenix, Arizona. You can see what is coming up on my events page.

I find walking into a room of strangers hard. Will I fit in?

You would not be alone in feeling that. My gatherings are designed to be low pressure, with no forced sharing and plenty of room to simply be present. Come as you are and participate in whatever way feels comfortable.

Why does gathering in person matter?

The U.S. Surgeon General has called attention to loneliness and isolation as a public health concern, and the research behind that advisory is worth reading. I believe ordinary gatherings are one gentle answer.

If you'd like more info, feel free to call me at 623-986-3987.

Warmly, Water Shepherd