Coming Together + Culture
Jan/Feb/Mar 2023 : : Issue I
Welcome to the inaugural issue of In the Mix! Each quarterly letter will include insights into connecting through culture. My hope is to spark curiosity and encourage joyful and authentic relationships. This issue on Coming Together includes my latest writing, a few reflection questions to encourage cultural connection in your life, and a book, song, and podcast recommendation. Enjoy!
IN MY OWN WORDS
Strangers No More, 1/2023: It is hard to leave the comfort zone of our existing relationships, communities, and routines, especially when we might be unsure about whether others will accept us or welcome us.
All Things Mommie, Indy Maven, 11/2022: In November, I profiled Erien Dickens, a woman who is intentionally bringing together a community of moms in my home city. You can read it here!
INSPIRATION
Start With Hello: Written by my fellow Hoosier, Shannan Martin, this book gives real-life examples of how to initiate coming together as neighbors. Whether it's giving someone a ride or asking a neighbor for sugar, she shares how even small actions can lead to strong connections.
We Are The People: I saw Martin Garrix live last year and U2 a few years before ~ both amazing and inspiring! This song, produced for the 2020 European Football Championship, really just makes you want to come together, dance, and cheer! (I'm trying to keep the energizing World Cup vibe alive for the next four years:)
Longer Tables with José Andrés: I am a longtime fan of José Andrés, his amazing work with World Central Kitchen, and his food, which takes me back to my time in Spain. He has a big personality and a big heart and they both come through as he interviews guests like Jane Goodall and Stacey Abrams.
ENCOURAGEMENT
Reflection can spur ideas about how to come together in our lives. Here are a few questions to get you started.
1) Have you read a story or seen a movie about people from different cultures coming together? How did it begin? What kept people together along the way?
2) Have you seen people come together across cultures in your own life - in friend groups, in church or at work, in your neighborhood? What was the first step in building relationships? How has it been sustained?
CONNECTION
If you’re interested in more content about connecting through culture, follow my personal adventures on Instagram @_sarafichtner and if you’re not already, please consider subscribing and joining the In the Mix community. Thank you!