Many thanks to everyone who attended our third Solutions-Focused Community Book Club, discussing How We Show Up by Mia Birdsong! We hope you enjoyed the conversation and connections as much as we did.
If you attended September’s meeting and would like to give us feedback, please click here to tell us what you thought!
In her book How We Show Up: Reclaiming Family, Friendship, and Community, Mia Birdsong argues that the American Dream, as it is currently defined, is isolating and unsustainable. She shows that what separates us isn’t only the ever-present injustices built around race, class, gender, values, and beliefs but also our denial of our interdependence and need for belonging.
We asked our attendees how they showed up in their community, and here is what they had to say:
“I love getting to show up for my friends and family by baking or cooking for them, being there to listen and hold space for whatever they may need.”
“I show up for my friends, family, and community by being an active listener and giving them my undivided attention. I do my best to always come from a place of kindness, compassion, and understanding to provide the best support for others.”
“I show up to my community by shopping at local businesses, assisting the homeless, appreciating the diversity, and respecting the differences.”
“I show up to my family and friends by being there for them, helping in any way I can, and enjoying them in activities.”
“I show up for my friends and family by giving them my complete attention when we are together.”
“I love showing up for my friends and family by simply complimenting them because a compliment can go a long way!”
“My favorite way to show up for my community is by being a respectful neighbor and treating them the way I would want to be treated. This includes the wildlife here, so I try to plant as many native plants and trees on our property as possible and don’t use pesticides so that they can also continue to thrive here”
“I show up for my family and friends by always being a helping hand and a person who can listen and help with problems and worries they may have.”
“I show up by being there for any of my family or friends that need me”
“My favorite way to show up for my family is by being present when they need me and baking for them.”
“Growing my skills in the nonprofit sector to support our community!”
What are we reading next?
If you missed our September meeting but would like to get involved, please RSVP to the November Book Club Meeting and start reading Poverty, by America by Matthew Desmond.