38/100 Impression of You

I just came back from a wonderful Sip & Sketch session at the YMCA. Small turnout, but big hearts and kind folks that truly care about the community and discovering creativity within. Genuine people connecting on a personal level is a rare thing these days. I find that when we're connecting through art making, the experience is all the more special. I say this because when you're expressing your art or craft, you're sharing a vulnerable side of you to the world. It is raw, illogical and absurd. But most of all, it is genuine and authentic. So to part take in that communal experience, we're already on a borderline friend zone level (like just almost there).

I also noticed that I've changed in subtle ways to be more open to people. My interaction with others now is more rooted on topics of life, passion and values. I've stopped leading my conversations with "What do you do?", because in all honesty, I don't really care. I'm learning to listen more intently for words both said and unsaid. I love chatting with Lyft/Uber drivers to learn more about the neighbourhoods they serve. I'm resisting the need to browse or surf online when I'm in the presence of another human being. Also, giving other people the benefit of the doubt because first impressions can be easy to judge. It's like what they say about everyone you meet is fighting a different battle or putting up a front for self defense, I'm still training myself to be more understanding of that. Be open, Dig deep and embrace all is kind of the mantra I'm going for these days.