Over the next few weeks I will be sharing a big story of change --- one chapter at a time-- since just like every where in the world: big changes are happening in this corner of the universe -- and they could involve you!
Let's begin by sharing a new and very exciting new partnership with New Stories!
Here's the skinny on how we got here: As the smoke from the LA fires settled, it was so clear: It was neighbors helping neighbors who saved the canyon from burning.
The experience of going through that fire deepened my belief that a crisis canstrengthen communities and make us more resilient.
And yet-- we are in an evolutionary moment that is redefining how we gather, how we learn, and how we remember what matters most--how to be human.
In some ways the tech is exciting: making it possible to commune with people on the other side of the globe without leaving our kitchen chair.
In other ways-- it is challenging us to make sure that as our relationship with technology evolves-- we stay in the practice developing and expressing our humanity.
With the invention of the AI boyfriend, AI therapists, and so much more-- we need to consciously practice our muscles of being human -- and with intention-- consciously create situations where we are not programming the algorithm to give us exactly what we want.
Can you imagine a day when we have to consciously choose to spend time around people who think differently, act differently, and want different things--- so we can continue to keep our humanity muscles strong and continue learn how to be with difference?
It would seem
Ben Franklin was on to something:
This is an unusual invitation
to bring storytelling to your community.
The fires brought me closer to Bob Stilger, and his team at NEW STORIES, Ally Joseph, and Z Johnson.
Turns out, they are holding a lot of the same questions and feel the dream of finding innovative ways to support community through these times. AND-- they are holding a few other threads that make this a very viable program to support people like you all around the globe to bring this new kind of hybrid online/in-person experience to your community.
Our vision is to foster
a new model of gathering—
one that blends the intimacy of in-person connection
with the richness of global community.
Through this hybrid format,
your local community comes together
to receive live online teachings
and then build connections
through in-person practice and story sharing.
On the outside: people in your community will just see an invitation for a storytelling class or event they can attend in-person.
But on the inside... you know this:
Storytelling
Builds community.
Brings us together.
Heals.
Activates.
Through connection and enjoyment.
Sharing stories reminds us that we belong to each other.
When you play the role of the lighthouse, you’re not chasing or persuading. You are simply being—a steady presence. You are a place where people gather. You were built to stand tall through storms and shine a light that helps others find their way.
Like a lighthouse, your purpose is not to control the sea, but to illuminate the path.
Do You Want to Be a Host for our Lighthouse Program in Your Community?
What This Involves:
As a LightHouse Host, you’ll host a 4 week class where your local group gathers to take the class together.
OR: you might host a single evening that features a storyteller.
This can happen in your home, a community center, library, or other welcoming space.
You’ll receive:
Free tuition for the course
Training and guidance to support your role
Flyers and announcements to help you spread the word
A 50% scholarship code you can offer to someone in need
When 4 or more people register for your lighthouse post,
We can’t wait to co-create this next chapter with you.
Story as Medicine is a reader-supported publication. Thank you for reading and subscribing. Every time you join as a paid subscriber my muse whispers into my ear, “See? I told you there is a place for Sacred Storytelling in our modern world.” And then she kicks up her heels and did the “I told you so” dance.
