As an introvert I don't necessarily love the initial moment of meeting someone new. Scratch that I don't love it at all, but once I settle into the conversation my people detective skills kick-in and I start enjoying myself.
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I often describe myself as Sherlock Holmes (and not that old stodgy version, but the cool Robert Downey Jr. version with the matrix-like reflexes and foresight) because I enjoy solving the mysteries of people once I get a chance to know them.
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I enjoy listening for the talents they're being modest about, looking for the nuanced behaviors that make them unique, and simply taking in what it must feel like to be them.
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I know, it might sound like there's a lot going on when I first meet someone, but for me it's exhilarating and it all often happens in a matter of minutes, sometimes even seconds.
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So this past year it was strange for me to feel called to meet new people and host conversations with strangers... Like, who? Me?
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It was overwhelming thinking of what it would feel like to talk with a group of people I don't know, but once I sat with it for awhile I saw that what I was being called to do was help build connection, community and even healing.
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I see now, meeting new people is a gateway to the real goal: Inspire conversations that help us cross the lines that divide us, using my gifts.
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So despite my introverted tendencies, and my fear of being too much and offending someone with what I really think...
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I'm answering the call. I'm embarking on a journey of sparking conversation with the hope that as you share your voice, others will share theirs too.
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When we share our stories, we see ourselves and each other a bit more clearly. We build community.
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I invite you to join me.
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And yes, that is a Santabear sneaking into my pic.
