A quote attributed to Brene Brown is that humans are hardwired for connection. Evening Conversations are a one way for you to connect with others in your community. Getting at the heart of what we share in common with one another, these conversations can have a positive and powerful impact across society – including a sense of respect, understanding, and even friendship.
What matters in these conversations are your personal perspectives, not how much you know about a subject.
Conversation Format
The format of an evening conversation is similar to that used in the talking circles. Additionally, to ensure a conversation can be had with meaningful input from everyone, it is best to have a small group, up to 8 people. As such, it is somewhat structured:
- Opening. Introductions and take care of any housekeeping items at the start of your conversation.
- Introduction. Each person shares their name and tells something about themselves or what brought them to this conversation.
- Conversation Agreement. Go through the items in the conversation agreement to ensure everyone is familiar with the expectations.
- Discussion Round #1. Getting to know each other. In this round, say something about yourself such as your hopes and dreams, what guides you in life, or ….
- Discussion Round #2. Discussion on the topic
- Discussion Round #3. Reflection of the conversation. This is also an opportunity to ask questions (keeping in mind the conversation guidelines) and speaking to what you take way from the conversation.
- Closing. It is helpful if you are able to provide feedback so that we can ensure the conversations meet your needs. Also, if you want to make a donation to this service to ensure this service continues, it is greatly appreciated.
Conversations Guidelines
- Respect the talking piece so the person who has it can convey their full message without interruption.
- Listen respectfully and reflect upon, consider, and honor the meaning of what others say so you can build on the conversation.
- Mute other devices so as not to interrupt others.
- Speak for yourself and from your own experiences and perspectives. Use “I language” and not generic people think statements or sweeping generalizations.
- Be courageous, honest, and open with your own stories. Speak your truth from your heart and be open to hearing others’ truths.
- Listen from the heart, allowing what others say to move you. Bear witness but do not provide advice or argue with others.
- Honor what others say with confidentiality and integrity, sharing only with context and in relevance to your own life and learning, not as gossi