This morning it was helping new civic leaders in Cleveland learn what creates stuck and thriving communities. People loved the message for it’s freshness and vitality.
Interestingly, one young woman afterwards remarked that people in her social circles do not often have authentic and meaningful civic conversations. About anything. The talk is dominated by pride in recent escapades at Crate and Barrel, Ann Taylor and Eddie Bauer.
Not surprised. Many people cocoon themselves in a privileged world because it provides ample protection from the anxiety and guilt of living in a world less perfect. Civic conversations have for so long been framed as depressing debates about problems, blame, deficiencies, and permissions.
Perhaps when people learn conversations that are radically more supportive of thrivancy, they will be more willing to act like engaged citizens rather than anesthetized consumers.
