Dear friends, This week’s sharing is co-written with Felice, an intern who was moved to pen down her experience after helping with a recent conversation among mothers on the theme of “Health and Dreams”. Felice was struck by the genuine care and concern people accorded each other even though they did not really know each other well and importantly, how people walked away from the conversation feeling stronger and hopeful. To some, “health” was good hygiene, preventing illnesses and keeping fit. To others, it meant being surrounded by loved ones and caring for one’s mental health. A mother recounted a period in …
Another Week Beyond – 2211
Dear friends, “We are here to create a safe and brave space. What do you think that is?” This was how we began our very first session for 4 youth to explore if they would like to nurture a small community where members help each other learn strategies for psychological and emotional wellbeing. A safe space is one where people feel comfortable with each other and experience a curious sense of trust and connection. It is also a space that protects them from the fear of abandonment or isolation, or being treated differently, after sharing in the space. They envision a …
Another Week Beyond – 2210
Dear friends, As they pick up their food packs during a food distribution exercise at the end of the month, representatives from some 100 households will also vote for 2 proposals they would like implemented in their neighbourhood. On their neighbourhood phone chat group, they have already seen a short video pitch of the 4 different proposals put forth by neighbours who are vying to serve as a Community Fellow. Nonetheless, at the food collection point, more information about each proposal will be available. We are holding the selection of a community enhancement initiative in conjunction with a food exercise to suggest …
Another Week Beyond – 2209
Dear friends, A planned face-to-face meeting was changed at the last moment when a child of one participant was tested positive for COVID-19. Nonetheless, the 3 women showed up online without their spirits dampened. They seemed really pleased to see other and reminisced about the times they could meet at each other’s home, and they unanimously agreed that meeting at Dee’s place was the best. Dee moved out of the rental-flat neighbourhood in 2019 after purchasing a 3-room flat, and her home got voted the top meeting venue because of the food she serves and the availability of a karaoke system. …