"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
dear muse,
at je mérite, we believe that community is not just a nice-to-have; it's a fundamental need that enriches our lives in countless ways
whether it's finding support during challenging times, celebrating our successes, or simply sharing a laugh with like-minded individuals, the power of community is undeniable
but what does it mean to deserve community?
it means recognizing your inherent worth and understanding that you have a valuable contribution to make
it means embracing your uniqueness and finding others who appreciate and celebrate it
it means creating connections that uplift and inspire you, and in turn, doing the same for others
enjoy this week's love letter...
*all photos are links to more information, the bookshop.org link is an affiliate link
our meditation
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
deepen your connection: a meditation for community
by insight timer
our podcast
many of us crave stronger community, especially in the areas we live
imagine how nice it would be to know all of your neighbors, have third spaces you're a regular at and plan routine gatherings with a wide circle of friends
but how do you actually make this dream a reality?
priya parker, author of the art of gathering, shares her best tips for building community at the local level
priya parker for npr
our journal prompt
an amazing blog, written in 2020, but still rings true today
we lift each other up when we care for our community
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
when self-care turns into community care
by healthline.com
our book selection
a novel about a young, modern sikh woman in london who teaches creative writing to a group of traditional punjabi widows, who discover their voices and sexuality through sharing erotic stories, challenging their conservative community and uncovering secrets, including a young woman's mysterious death
the book explores themes of tradition vs. modernity, female empowerment, and cultural clashes
erotic stories for punjabi widows
by balli kaur jaswal
finally, our film selection
this story interweaves two timelines: a present-day unhappy housewife, who is inspired by an elderly woman, telling her tales of a 1920s alabama café and the deep friendship between its owner, and her friend
the film explores themes of friendship, love, and finding the courage to change one's life, with a memorable scene involving the phrase "towanda!"
starring kathy bates, jessica tandy, and mary stuart masterson
your 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
in closing
may this week remind you that connection is always possible
through reaching out, through showing up, through allowing yourself to be seen
you deserve community
you deserve belonging
as always, affirmations from pervious weeks are available here
you'll be hearing more from me soon
promise
tamara charese
as always, affirmations from previous weeks are available here
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