What We’ll Need After This (Thoughts on Community)

"The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members."

– Coretta Scott King

This virus has shaken so much of the world we knew. And in the aftermath, we will have an opportunity to rebuild in ways that reflect our society's needs. This year, as coronavirus vaccinations are distributed and we work toward finding some sense of normalcy in our lives again, there is nothing we will need more than each other.

Where can you find community? There are many places to look. Clubs, classes, support groups, and houses of worship are great places to begin forging connections. Some elements of a strong community include: a focus on the well-being of the community, purpose-driven, active and involved members.

If you have a strong community, now is the time to ask what that community needs and consider how it can serve as a source of support and joy for those suffering. If you lack the type of community you need right now, consider building it yourself. Maybe the community you need doesn't exist yet. Here is a wonderful list of books for those interested in community building. What will you gather around? How will you support your members? What purpose will drive you?

I wish you all joy, connection, and fellowship in the coming year.

 "It is not more bigness that should be our goal. We must attempt, rather, to bring people back to the warmth of community, to the worth of individual effort and responsibility, and of individuals working together as a community, to better their lives and their children's future."

 – Robert F. Kennedy