Opportunities to Write + Connect

Start. Keep going. Be good to yourself.

One of the common denominators I am hearing from people is that they feel isolated and alone.

That feeling was one of the things that led me, nine years ago at exactly this time of year, to create 10 writing prompts and to invite a dozen people into a private space where we shared our writing.

The idea was simple: Read the prompt, set a timer, and spend 10 minutes writing words, allowing ourselves to name, release, claim, explore, and express things that we were carrying around (that we didn't even necessarily realize we were carrying around!).

We need community and spaces to connect, spaces where we receive encouragement and support to start and keep going, and most importantly, to be kinder to ourselves.

The act of writing freely (aka freewriting) has a way of engendering more self-compassion, just as the privilege of reading other people's words makes us more empathetic to each other and to those whose stories we may never know.

A number of people have reached out to me recently to ask about current and/or upcoming opportunities for writing and connecting, so I thought I'd share a few things at once here.

You're not alone. Let's gather.

THE SHAMATI* SESSIONS

What: A Jewish container for support and solidarity
When: Mondays, December 4, 11, 18, 6:00pm EST (60-90 minutes, depending on size)
Where: Zoom
Cost: By donation (no one will be turned away) and 18% of proceeds will be passed along to nonprofits supporting Israelis and Palestinians.

This gathering is specifically for Jewish folks who are seeking space in which to write, witness, and be heard. (*Hebrew for "I've heard you.")

More details + registration:
https://jewishcreativepractice.com/the-shamati-sessions/

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CREATIVE SPARKS

What: A two-week online writing group, limited to 12 participants,
When: December 4-15
Where: Facebook
Cost: $99 (or $199 with a coaching session)

While these 10 prompts are inspired by Hasidic stories and wisdom, the group is open to anyone who could use inspiration, a creative outlet, and a warm gathering space for writing and connecting.

More details + registration:
www.jenaschwartz.com/creative-sparks

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REFLECT & REPLENISH

What: An End-of-Year Journaling Circle with me and

Skylar Liberty Rose

When: Sunday, December 10, 12:00-1:30pm EST
Where: Zoom
Cost: $50

This is a space for you to gain clarity, create closure where possible, and get curious about what the next chapter might hold for you. (Note: we promise you will *not* hear the word "resolution," not even once!).

More details + registration:
www.skylarlibertyrose.com/events

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