Can We Talk?
The world just keeps on spinning. Global headlines are filled with stories of overseas tragedies—war in Ukraine, the devastating earthquake in Syria and Turkey, floods in Pakistan and wildfires in New Zealand, ongoing food shortages in parts of Africa and Asia. Domestically, we encounter continuing stories of violence from Memphis, TN to Monterey Park, CA, lingering effects of the Covid pandemic and the deepening homeless crisis accentuated by the disconnect between politicized budgets and the day-to-day reality of our citizens.
Locally, we’re faced with enumerable price spikes—from eggs to natural gas, concerns about sensible real estate development and how we can raise our families in this complex digital age.
It is enough to drive us to silence and paralyze us into inaction. But, it may be asked, is this not the precise time to initiate opportunities for dialogue among us? Yet where can we go in Palisades to participate in such community-wide conversations? Where can we meet with our neighbors on a regular basis and get to know them better? Where can we explore what is on our hearts in a respectful environment without fear of judgement?
Is this not the time for sharing about the subjects that concern us most? To explore how we might navigate solutions to the nuanced issues we face by listening to one another and sharing ideas that deepen our relationships and strengthen the bonds between us? The editorial team at 10964 is seeking information from you—residents of Palisades—to determine whether a community- based sharing group that meets on a regular basis is something we should establish.
By way of beginning this exploration, let us know your thoughts. If there is sufficient interest, the idea is to begin a four-session program later this spring, meeting at the Palisades Presbyterian Church. Please fill out the brief questionnaire below and submit your thoughts online to info@palisadesny.com or mail a printed copy to 10964 Newsletter; P.O. Box 201; Palisades, NY 10964.
Your view is a critical part of the process of building a more cohesive, responsive community. So, please take a few moments and let us know how you feel about this idea.
10964 Editorial Team
YOUR THOUGHTS:
The idea
__ Yes, I think this is a great idea. I would definitely participate
__ I think this is an interesting idea but I am not sure I would participate
__ I do not like this idea; there is too much going on in my life already
Frequency of Gatherings
__ I would prefer once a week
__ I would prefer every other week
__ I would prefer once a month
Best Time of Day for Me
__10:00 am
__Noon
__4:00 pm
__7:30 pm
Some Discussion Topics I’d Like to Explore
__Ways to strengthen our community
__Local environmental issues
__Intergenerational cooperation
__Navigating the aging process
__How to have courageous conversations