Belonging
This program is about the feeling of belonging. We explore times in our lives when we felt we did or did not belong, our emotional and physical reactions to the sense of belonging, and some of the things that make it easier or more difficult for us to belong. This session also includes some time for introducing a new member.
Member Preparation
In preparation for this session, take some time to read through the following quotes, and to think about times in your life when you felt that you truly did or did not belong.
“Community cannot for long feed on itself; it can only flourish with the coming of others from beyond, their unknown and undiscovered brothers [and sisters].” - Howard Thurman (American theologian, 1900-1981)
“How does one keep from "growing old inside"? Surely only in community. The only way to make friends with time is to stay friends with people…. Taking community seriously not only gives us the companionship we need, it also relieves us of the notion that we are indispensable.” - Robert McAfee Brown
“The love of our neighbor in all its fullness simply means being able to say, ‘What are you going through?’” - Simone Weil
These questions provide ways you may want to approach this topic. Remember to focus on just one or two of the questions, if you choose to use them, as this will allow you to explore the topic in more depth.
- What does it mean to you to belong? When have you felt that you truly belonged?
- What are some of the physical reactions you have when you feel you belong, what are some of the emotional? Conversely what does it fee like physically and emotionally whey you feel you don’t belong?
- What do you think allows you to feel like you belong? What gets in the way?
- Have you helped someone else feel like they belong? What did you do to make him or her feel welcome?