I wasn’t going to do a blog post today because I didn’t do any art. However, I did attend the women’s circle at Reversing Falls Sanctuary. Every first Sunday of the month, there is a women’s circle at the sanctuary. I have only attended 2 of them, but they are really enjoyable and community building. If I were to think of a word for this area of the country, it would be “community building.” There are so many ways to connect with people in many different ways in Maine. I feel it here–Down East–in particular, but it seems like it is a theme throughout the state.
I picked up my neighbors, Martha, Sheila, and Maggy, and we drove the snowy roads to the sanctuary. Once there, we were greeted by a group of busy women getting ready for a potluck. This was the focus this month–connecting to community while breaking bread together. Each month, a different couple of women lead the group in exploring a different topic. The meeting last December was all about regrets.
In this time of chaos in the government, many people are talking about working within the community to strengthen the bonds there. I believe Maine has been doing that forever. The rest of the country just has to catch up.
One last thing I’ll say about developing community, you have to participate. It’s difficult at first, particularly for individuals like me who are introverts. However, once you commit to moving beyond yourself and connecting to others, it becomes easier and even needed.
Another way to be committed is to drive your neighbors to the events. They are counting on you–you have to go. If you get there and hate it, no one says you have to return. Just do a few little things to connect. It really makes a difference.
Back to work tomorrow!
