It is increasingly clear to those of us on the 2020 planning committee that our years together at Carleton are in one way or another part of the fabric of all or our lives. We would like to invite you to share stories of how your life has been affected by the current Covid-19 pandemic. Can you share something about your experiences in the last three months — the good, the bad, the unexpected? Your voice, your reflections, your story is important especially now as we seek the tenderness of our humanity and experience the fragility of our planet.
For me (Leslie), I know that Carleton taught me to pay attention and to explore issues and events from a 360 degree perspective. This allows me to be surprised by the unexpected blessings but also deepens my awareness of the diversity and disparity of experiences others have during this time. And like many of you, I struggle to celebrate the innovation, creativity and generosity I see all around me and respond to the trials and suffering that are also so painfully apparent. I hold within the same moment both hope and trepidation. I am asking myself where to from here?
For me (Jennifer) I rediscovered through friendships nurtured by volunteering for Carleton that much of who I am was formed by my experience at Carleton. During this pandemic trying to find encouragement is a challenge. I know my experience is not unique.
Remember the late night discussions in dorm lounges? Sharing stories and experiences helped each of us define our strengths & identify vulnerabilities. Similarly now we can benefit from a virtual lounge, sharing experiences that can broaden our understanding, compassion and support for one another. That is my hope.
Post a story here to share with your classmates. Consider the following questions and respond with a brief 3-5 word reflection, a short blog, a poem — the choice is yours.
- What unexpected blessing(s) have your experienced in the last few months.
- Tell us about a time when you felt most alive — perhaps you were more aware of one of your five senses – the taste of a great meal, the pleasure of music etc. What was the experience?
- Is there something you have learned — about yourself, your work, your community, or ??? What does reunion mean to you in a time like this?
We welcome the opportunity to hear your “voices.” The stories we gather will be shared as part of our “un”Reunion experience.
— Leslie (Bartl) Wright and Jennifer (Will) Labovitz
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