Let's Gather Around a Table

Let's Gather Around a Table--


It is a marvelous gift to sit down and visit with friends and strangers who become friends about things that really matter in this life.

To visit about significant things requires an open mind.  It requires a listening spirit.  And it also requires a little time.  Recently I was introduced to a book about meeting in pubs to converse about all things important.  Since the word pub was used,  it had to be born in England.  Some would say it is wrong to meet in pubs to talk about faith and God and life issues.  Some would not attend unless the venue changed locations.  But, others welcome the friendly, accepting atmosphere of a pub.

Does it make a difference where people meet to have meaningful discussions?  Really--does it?

From what I learned, it is about sitting down at a table and talking honestly about things that matter.  Is it important that those around the table agree on all issues?  Not at all.  People need an opportunity to express their views and learn how others think on issues that touch us all.  By coming together around the table, we are making space in our heart for others.  Wow!  Making space in our heart for others.  I think that is an amazing thing to do.

Meeting around a table in a pub or a kitchen or a restaurant yells hospitality.  For one thing, the group cannot be larger than the number of chairs that fit at the table.  Another factor is everyone has the opportunity to express views if they decide to do so.  No one is pressured to believe anything.  No one is asked to share personal stories.  No one is ever put on the spot.  Most of us are afraid of exposing our true beliefs because we believe others will judge us.  That must end.

Do we ever really discuss important issues?  Our world is a troubled place.  Would conversation spur an action?  Would discussion change a mind?  What could happen if a few people gathered to engage in meaningful conversation?  It sounds so exciting to me.

So, this is my call to those of you who are reading and live close by.  Would you be interested in gathering with the intent of engaging in discussion about topics that are important?  If you are, would you message me on Facebook.  We can arrange a time and place to meet and see what direction this could take.  Nothing ventured--nothing gained.  I am ready to step out to learn from you and to share my thoughts.

One hour a week--doesn't seem like much, does it?  That one hour has the power to move us to new places in the deepest part of our being.   To change our lives.

Looking so forward to sitting around the table with you!