The Map to Deeper Joy Workshop – February 9th
What if fostering inclusive, multigenerational communities wasn’t about hard work, but rather about a willingness to play?
On February 9th, we will explore The Map to Deeper Joy where people may find themselves opening up, bonding, stretching, and healing. The worship service will guide us through the why and then a workshop immediately following service will let us practice the how.
The workshop will provide a myriad of opportunities for everyone to explore the different areas of the map.
Opportunities at “Bonding Harbor” will include some games where our intern minister Bridget Laflin you will get to know each other better. There will also be an opportunity to smash some dishes and create a beautiful mosaic from the broken pieces.
Moving on to “Opening Up Beach,” participants will choose between snacking on some gummy bears or making a craft with Bite Sized Answers. This isn’t a deep dive into your personal life unless you want it to be. This of the beach as a place to get your toes wet.
If you choose to find yourself in the “Forest of Affirmation” during the workshop, this will be a chance to ask for affirmations and/or provide some kind words to another. Sometimes things feel heavy and dark and we depend on the kindness of others. Receiving kind words can help us understand that we belong here.
Want to participate in the workshop, but not sure you will feel up to engaging with other activities or people? At the “Cliffs of Exclusivity,” individuals will have the ability to participate in an Inclusion Inquiry. Take a clipboard and imagine you are a newcomer at UUS. Reflect on some questions about the aspects of belonging.
Need to visit the “Healing Springs” during the workshop? You’ll have space to delight all your senses. Indulge in tasty foods. Snuggle up on the couch with a nice blanket or stuffed animal. There will also be a quiet space with soft music where you can write a blessing or prayer from yourself to yourself.
Looking to dive deeper during the workshop? The “Canyons of Deeper Sharing” might be the place on the map that you are most interested in visiting.
This workshop might be full of activities that you consider “just silly games” or “meaningless arts and crafts,” but I challenge you to reconsider. What if to create a truly inclusive, multigenerational community we need to play more? What if games and arts and crafts give us the opportunity to widen the circle and invite more people in to our space? What if finding Deeper Joy lets us know that we belong.
During the workshop, children are welcome to participate in the activities at their caregiver’s side or children can be signed up for childcare in the RE Wing where they will have a supervised space where they can choose games, crafts, and their own set of snacks.
If you know you plan to participate in the workshop, please let us know by filling out this short form. Letting us know you plan to attend will help us ensure we have enough food and materials for everyone.
I look forward to exploring the Map to Deeper Joy with you!