What I Hope People Take Home From a Gathering

ayWhen an evening ends and the last cushions are stacked and put a, I always ask myself the same question. What are people carrying home that they did not arrive with?

I hope it is the feeling of being expected. So much of life is optional attendance, and so many rooms would not notice our absence. I want my gatherings to be rooms where your presence is noticed, and where your absence would be too.

I hope it is one real conversation. Not networking, and not small talk survived. The kind of exchange where you heard something true about another person, or said something true about yourself.

And I hope it is the reminder that community is available. Loneliness tells us that connection is for other people, the sociable ones, the easy talkers. A good gathering proves otherwise.

As I reflect on why I do this work, it comes down to that carried-home feeling. If you leave one of my events a little lighter and a little more connected, the evening did its job. I hope to see you at one soon. Everything upcoming is on my events page.

What happens at one of your gatherings?

Easy conversation, often food, and sometimes a group sound meditation. They are held at the Empower House Community Gathering Space in North Phoenix, Arizona, and they are shaped to be welcoming from the first minute.

I do not know anyone in the community yet. Can I still come?

Please do. First-timers are at every gathering, and you will be welcomed. Dates and details are on my events page.

Why does this work matter to you?

Because connection is a need, and the evidence keeps saying so. The U.S. Surgeon General has described loneliness as a public health concern, and I want my small rooms to be part of the answer.

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

Warmly, Water Shepherd