The separation many of us experienced in 2020, and the following years, solidified our need for community.
Community is essential as we move forward thru increasingly challenging times
I am grateful to all of you, my muses, who support this brand, and who read this newsletter each week. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your community.
This week, we affirm::
I Deserve Community
Je Mérite La Communauté
"Community is not an ideal; it is people. It is you and I. In community we are called to love people just as they are with their wounds and their gifts, not as we want them to be." - Jean Vanier
Below are some great resources, hand-picked by myself, Tamara Charese, in the spirit of community:
*All photos are links to more information. The bookshop.org link is an affiliate link
Let's begin this week as we do every week, with an amazing meditation...
DEEPEN YOUR CONNECTION: A MEDITATION FOR COMMUNITY
BY INSIGHT TIMER
In this deeply grounding meditation, you will feel the strength, support, and warmth of community. Designed to nurture a sense of belonging and interconnectedness, this practice helps you reflect on the relationships and communities that enrich your life while honoring your unique role within them.
Next, a playlist in the spirit of community and this week's film...
JUKE JOINT JAMS
BY NAIMA COCHRANE OF MUSIC SERMON
Aka Hole-in-the-wall music, aka Liquor House Music, aka Southern Soul Blues. Songs that advocate good ol' down home sin.
Next, a great community podcast from Olayemi Olurin
OLAY & FRIENDS
Olay & Friends is a weekly podcast where Olay invites 5 of your favorites discuss hot topics!
Next, an amazing blog, written in 2020, but still rings true today. We lift each other up when we care for our community.
WHEN SELF-CARE TURNS INTO COMMUNITY CARE
BY HEALTHLINE.COM
If you're able to practice self-care, that's great. Just don't forget about the people around you. No matter how privileged we are, we still need human connection. We still need to give and receive love. Here are six ways to shift your thinking to community care, considering the needs of your family members, friends, co-workers, neighbors, group members, and others you interact with on a regular basis.
Next, our book selections because this week I'm just indecisive lol
Enjoy!
8 BOOKS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY
BY CJ CONNOR OF BOOK RIOT
With a mix of fiction and nonfiction, these books explore the value of community in its many sweet, thoughtful, and even serious forms.
Finally, a new film, that may not be up your alley but if it is, enjoy!
SINNERS
STARRING MICHAEL B JORDAN, DIRECTED & WRITTEN BY RYAN COOGLER
In Ryan Coogler's movie "Sinners,"community plays a central role, both on and off-screen.The story explores the dynamics of a Black community in the Jim Crow South, who face a new threat as they try to build a juke joint to celebrate their culture.The film also highlights the importance of community building, with the cast and creatives emphasizing the strong bonds formed both on and off-screen.
YOUR "I DESERVE" AFFIRMATION RITUAL
You were never meant to do this life alone.
This self-love and self-care ritual is an invitation to seek and to offer connection, and to remember: belonging is your birthright.
REACH OUT, GENUINELY - Send a loving message, voice note, or DM to someone you admire, miss, or care about. Don’t wait for a reason. Community grows when we nourish it.
SEEK + SHARE - Join a local gathering, virtual circle, or group aligned with your values. Whether it's a book club, yoga class, community garden, or spiritual circle, take the first step. Your people are waiting.
This week, let yourself be open to the love, support, and shared strength that community offers. You deserve to belong.
You'll be hearing more from me soon. Promise.
Tamara Charese
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