When the world is heavy
"Community is built one small, shared moment at a time - not through large declarations or perfect disclosures. It is [in] the smallest exchanges."
Esther Perel
When the unthinkable happens, it’s natural to feel completely at sea.
Unmoored. At a loss with what to say or do.
And in these devastating moments, when it’s often easier (and understandable) to withdraw and disconnect...
It’s here that we need each other the most.
The Jewish and Bondi communities have shown us this in the days since, in their compassion and courage, in the way they’ve held each other through the grief.
There’s a beautiful poem by Jess Urlichs that’s been sitting with us this week, and it feels a little bit like a lighthouse - a reminder that even when the world feels broken, most people are still good. And that there is meaning to be found in the tiniest, fleeting moments of connection with one another.
We hope it offers you a little hope or comfort too:
And then
I think of the young boy busking outside the
supermarket, singing Coldplay,
his sweet voice in the wind
his father proud
a baby being born; coming home
an elderly couple holding hands
each time someone says,
‘I saw this and thought of you’
A child’s expression when they see their parent
in a crowd.
how people make art to understand the world
not for the world to understand their art
acts of kindness among strangers
a dog who waits at the door for you
how most people are good
and for all the terrible, I try to think of the happiness
people still allow into their lives
With open arms and hearts.
How people mend piece by piece,
despite all that is broken.
— Jess Urlichs
Take care of yourselves, and each other.
The helpers are always there 🫂