The Power of Conversations

June 29, 2020June 29, 2020
by Smart Fit Womxn

Wine nights.

Bet you didn’t think that’s where this blog post was going, but here’s why I start there.

I love wine nights. Not because I enjoy the wine or the good food which usually accompanies wine nights (though I do love those things!), but rather it’s what those wine nights typically bring about…

Deep, rich conversation.

There’s something about gathering together, each person not simply bringing food or drink, but their perspectives and personalities to contribute to the whole. There’s something safe, secure, and warm about being invited to come together, to lay down whatever burdens you’ve been carrying throughout the day and share these with the friends and family you’re communing with. It’s a time for encouragement, discussion, connection, laughter, tears, longing, and celebration.

And all of this occurs because we’re conversing with one another.

Though coming to the same place can be challenging during a global pandemic, we’ve seen how people are finding creative ways to gather together. We’re recognizing we need each other, especially when we have barriers to seeing one another in person.

With the protests, laments, and calls for racial equality, the need for racial reconciliation weighs heavy on many hearts and minds.

If you find yourself overwhelmed with everything that’s happened in the last few months, and wondered, “Where do we go from here?”, you’re not alone.

Perhaps the next step to take isn’t flashy. It isn’t postable. It won’t require the use of hashtags or pictures. Many people might be unaware you’re even doing it.

But it will be powerful.

What is this next step?

It is simply this: engage in deep, rich conversation.

With those who are like you and those who are not. With those who have stories and backgrounds similar to yours and those who do not. In creative ways when you need to socially distance. With or without wine 😉

Because when you think back on the times you’ve changed for the better or grown, it’s most likely not from a social media post. It’s most likely not from something on your news feed. Rather, it’s because you befriended and learned the story of someone different than you. Or you were able to share your story with someone who listened well. You engaged in deep, rich conversation and you emerged better for it, and so did those around you.

Why do we believe so much in the power of conversations? That’s actually what wellness coaching is all about. Engaging in deep, rich conversations to bring about positive health changes that last. We’ve seen it happen, not only as coaches but in our personal lives, as well.

Don’t be fooled though – doing this work won’t come with a lot of glory. It will be hard and challenging and will require a LOT of humility. And it won’t come with any Instagram or Facebook likes.

But it will be worth it.

It will be worth it when we start to become the change we wish to see in the world.¹

It will be worth it when we know we are loved and loving others in our community.

And maybe, just maybe, we might all emerge from this pandemic with deeper friendships.

And that is always a cause for celebration. And wine.