This past Monday, I had the privilege of attending Emma's conversation circle. She even brought everyone apple cider, which was a bonus! Aside from the delicious cider, we spent the hour talking about Halloween, scary movies, and Emma's recent research trip to Italy. The flow of the conversation was very natural. I did not feel like I, nor anyone else, was pressured to speak; it was very much so a conversation among friends. At times, there were some moments of silence, but it did not feel awkward. I think we forget that in normal discourse, whether that be on the street, with friends, among family members, etc., there is a certain level of silence that occurs. It allows for those involved to process what is going on in the conversation, gather their thoughts, or think about switching topics. Not every silence needs to be filled. I actually find that I am most comfortable around people in situations where I do not feel pressured to have to talk during a few seconds of silence, where I am OK with enjoying the other's company even if no one is talking at the moment.
One thing that I really enjoyed about Emma's circle is the physical location of it. It was held in the Café in East Quad. So while it felt very coffee shop-esque, it still felt like it had a comfortable level of intimacy. Perhaps this is because the only people around us were fellow students, diligently working on homework or catching a quick bite to eat. This location is contrasted with where my circle and I typically have our conversations each week. My group meets on the 4th floor of the LSA Building in the lounge right outside of the elevators. At the time we meet, the space is typically empty with the occasional student passing through to get to class, so it is usually a pretty quiet space. In fact, the last time we met, we were the ones who were told we were being a little too loud! I have found that I really like this space, because it's comfortable and has few distractions. This week however, my group and I decided we would meet at Bubble Island instead of our normal location, just to give us a different environment. Plus, we meet during 5-6, so our stomachs are usually grumbling in anticipation of dinner. I definitely foresee snacks happening at Bubble Island. I look forward to changing up the location and breaking from our normal routine. I hope that it isn't too packed and that there's room for everyone to comfortably sit and talk, but we will make it work regardless, I'm sure. Until next time!
Very jealous about the cider. But, that aside, thanks for bringing up the idea of silence. I also love being in the company of people who don't make me feel pressured to speak in silences-- it proves that we're both comfortable with each other! I think your paragraph made me realize how I often rush to fill silent gaps in my Chat Cafe conversations.
ReplyDeleteI also think it's interesting that both you and Emma have a set location (whereas my group meets at a new place every week). I wonder how that lends to building a group dynamic! Are students bored by the same environment every week? Or, do they love the reliability of location? Hmm.
Also, LOVE bubble island and I hope you find seating for all of your group! Sometimes, only two-person tables are available or none at all. And, the taro milk tea was the favorite from my group ;)