Building Community
Why is community important to me?
Honestly? I have a love / not-so-much relationship with it.
Being in community is often activating for me. I’m sensitive to energy, and as someone who feels deeply responsible for the wellbeing of others, my nervous system is constantly scanning. I’m reading the room for cues—Is someone uncomfortable? Do they need something? Are they upset? Did I say the wrong thing? Did I say it the right way?
And on and on it goes. It’s exhausting.
And yet… there is a deep longing for connection in me that simply will not go away. No matter how many times I’ve been hurt, disappointed, or overwhelmed, I keep returning to the same truth: I want to be in connection. I need it.
As far back as I can remember, I’ve believed that life is an interconnected web. If that’s true—and I believe it is—then how we connect matters. It asks us to do so consciously, gently, and with care.
That belief is what led to the creation of our community gatherings. Through A Unified Mind, alongside Jennifer PageWise, I’m co-sponsoring twice-monthly community meetups. We gather at The Roaming Roast in the Royal Square District of York, PA on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays from 2–4 pm. And truly—Sydney is the best host and barista. So welcoming. So kind. The vibe matters.
As a queer-owned business, being visible matters to us. Creating spaces where LGBTQ+ folks—and our allies—can show up safely, casually, and authentically matters. No fixing. No performing. No pressure.
So if you want to hang out, drink some good coffee, eat something yummy, play a game, knit or crochet, bring your kids, or just exist in the same space as other humans—come join us. Bring a game if you want. Bring your craft bag. Bring yourself as you are. (and we can co-regulate together!)
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