Thanks, Chautauqua!

It’s the beginning of summer and my favorite summertime place is on my mind.

Did you grow up with beach vacations?

Maybe mountain hikes?

Disney or a week on a cruise?

Cool!

I know nothing about that.

I grew up going on the geekiest vacation a person could imagine in a little wonderland called Chautauqua.

At 13, I was spending my afternoons watching the symphony practice Bach in the outdoor amphitheater.

At 14, I was dancing with random grandparents to Paul Anka and savoring their contagious joy.

At 15, I was attending Buddhist meditations and gathering around peace poles for prayer as the sun rose.

At 16, I was listening to authors discuss their books on the political climate in distant countries.

At 17, I was debriefing political lectures around the lunch table with three generations of family.

At 18, I was happiest eating an ice cream cone while listening to the ringing of the bell tower.

As much as I chase rainbows, I also chase bell towers. The sound takes me right back to the one of the most influential places in my life.

The place where I learned the value of the slow life - porch sitting, deep conversation, the strum of a guitar and lots of laughs.

For me “Chautauqua” is both a verb and a value.

I “Chautauqua” when I listen to differing perspectives work to engage in civil discussions about them.

I “Chautauqua” when I savor time with people I love and the simple beauties all around.

I “Chautauqua” when I am open minded enough to listen to text from all religions and languages.

I “Chautauqua” when I put away my phone and listen to the stories all around me.

Thank you Chautauqua. May I have a summer that looks more like you -

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