sustaining conversations

Last night I attended VDS' Sustainability Dinner.  All the food was local (veggies, cheese, bread, wine, and beer).  It was lovely.  Of course the food was good.  No questions there.  The beer even better. 

Because it was at my good friend Jessica's house, I stuck around to clean (just a little), conversate, and take time to just be before the rush of semester's end.  There are only two weeks of classes left before exams (a week break for Thanksgiving in the middle of the madness).  

Though the dinner was focused on sustainability (something we must talk about more in our daily interactions), the conversations after most had left were the real sustaining elements. Let's be honest, most of us were (United) Methodists.  For those two individuals who were not, I apologize for how easily the conversation turned to denominational speak.  The genuine moments of beer in one hand, probably a ginger snap in the other, a smile on my face, and a keen ear are what will sustain be over the next four weeks.  We covered the spectrum: England, prop h8te, marriage, roommates, school, flees, food, church, and even ordination.  Surely I'm forgetting a few. 

Sustaining conversations give you hope.  Rare dialogues that open you to the possibility of change.  Your inner core is stretched and challenged.  I bet you laugh. Lots.  If you allow yourself to be vulnerable, a relationship is fostered in those discussions. Whether between one other or a group, new dimensions of friendship are discovered.  Fuel gets put in the tank.  Seeds are planted.  You come out a little better.  And in the midst, you may just help others be sustained.  

So thanks to those who stuck around, made me laugh, listened to my ongoing rants, and pushed me to think beyond.  Many thanks. 

Grace upon grace,

BEAT