Our First CSY Book Club Gathering
The votes were counted and the books and charity (The Covenant House Toronto) were chosen. We read and then we gathered. I was very excited to meet for the first time with the new group that was emerging at Creating Space Yoga Studio.
We had a brilliant group of women come together. Some of them were yoga students, some friends of CSY students, a sampling of our yoga teachers and a couple of women joined us who had attended our Mindfulness Lectures. We were an eclectic, wonderful mix.
The meeting was perfectly informal. Most of us brought along yummy and sinful baked goods which we enthusiastically shared (who doesn't have a sweet tooth now and again?) and lots of warm tea was enjoyed (perfect for a wintry evening.) The discussion was facilitated by Cheryl Smith. She did some research and put together a background illustration of each author. Then the discussion took off.
We had chosen to read And The Mountains Echoed by Khaled Hosseini as well as the Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline. The discussion began with the themes present in the book and then travelled organically towards "What did you think when this character made this decision?" or "Were you surprised when this happened?" We all agreed that each book introduced us to themes and experiences that we probably had never contemplated. The conversations eventually migrated toward deeper issues in our society. Always a pivotal point when things get interesting!
I felt grateful to have this time with a group of women who came together from different backgrounds, who had different perspectives and experiences and essentially, a group of women who didn't know each other personally. I was proud to be a part of the group. I am excited to see how this group will evolve and to welcome others into this new community. We are all a part of a community or society whether we participate or not. I was comforted to be with women who consciously participate. Women who are influencing, interacting and shaping a community and a society by being present.
It seems like it's "just a book club", but to me, it can be much more. Small interactions, connection and sharing is what gives life a patina and a depth that I enjoy.
I am equally proud to announce that this first book club gathering collected $270 for the Covenant House Toronto!
Looking forward to the spring CSY book club gathering on Tuesday, June 3rd. All are welcome...yogis, friends of yogis, and local neighbours. We would love to meet you! Vote now for your choice of book suggestions and the corresponding charity.
