I write about things I care about like balance, quiet, making space for people to relax and connect. But I also am curious to learn new things, from, as I used to write automatically, new and different others.
Found this old article (they mention Twitter like it was Old Twitter, which was good, even great, for making discoveries in the light way it was. I met cool people on old Twitter. I consider two of them good friends.
But yeah. The idea of listening to others comes up here, and seeking new perspectives out, too. Designed for kids going off to college, it leans towards the same ideas DK does: be open, stay curious, learn more richness, live more deeply as al result of these things.
A snippet:
‘Recognize the Value of Social Interaction
Building good relationships is important for happiness and a successful college experience. College offers the opportunity to meet many people you would likely not meet otherwise in life. Make the most of this opportunity to gain a number of benefits:
A growing understanding of diverse other people, how they think, and what they feel that will serve you well throughout your life and in your future career
A heightened sense of your own identity, especially as you interact with others with different personalities and from different backgrounds
Emotional comfort from friendship with someone who understands you and with whom you can talk about your problems, joys, hopes, and fears
An opportunity to grow with wider intellectual and emotional horizonsCollege often offers an opportunity to be stimulated and excited by new relationships and interactions with people who will challenge your thinking and help you become your best. Still, it can be difficult to get started with new relationships in college. Readf ull article: https://open.maricopa.edu/strategiesforfirstyearcollegesuccess/chapter/9-1-getting-along-with-others/
Making friends after college and political divisions
It can be even more difficult in a time of deep mistrust and increasing siloing. I can see a way to arrange conversation miniparties, which I do, and have, for 30 years.
I try it like this now. I put up flyers. See who connects. Connect you guys who said hi and seem genuinely curious, and there we go. New perspectives, right there.