"The Evolution of Community and Connection: Then and Now, Here and There"

Kayla Fine will refer to several examples of ancient through contemporary thoughts on the importance of community and connection, e,g.;

• Aristotle (384–322 BCE) – Man is by nature a social animal.,  Anyone who either cannot lead the common life or is so self-sufficient as not to need to, and therefore does not partake of society, is either a beast or a god.

• Brené Brown (b. 1965) – “Connection is why we’re here; it is what gives purpose and meaning to our lives.

• Simon Sinek (b. 1973) – “Too many people confuse being connected with being close.”

In advance of the meeting, participants may want to ponder the following questions:  

• What do we mean by community?  To what different kinds of communities have you belonged?

• What role did community play in your life growing up, and how does it compare to today?

• How has the way we communicate with family, friends and others changed over the years?

• What kind of social connections are satisfying to you. What kinds are not?  Why?

• How can one cultivate the connections one craves?  

• How has technology impacted relationships—positively and negatively?

• What are some traditions or practices from the past that you feel should be revived?

• How can we foster stronger connections in today's fast-paced world?

A discussion group founded by Ed Wohlrab with Arturo Kalfus is meeting these days in the comfort of the JC3 air-conditioned space.  Each Tuesday a volunteer facilitator introduces a thought-provoking topic with the intention of generating respectful and illuminating conversation. Join us over cookies, coffee or tea to meet and connect with neighbors and friends. We do ask that participants avoid political topics.