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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