Gloria Ferris

Recently, I have had the opportunity to participate in some extraordinary conversations with some very talented individuals.  I am learning new ways to say things, new ways to think about issues and realities, and gaining new insights by comparing book reviews, listening to questions and answers at Meet The Bloggers interviews, and really enjoying every moment of interaction with others that I encounter.  These encounters happened at bus stops, on street corners, in coffeeshops, in the homes of friends, and at area libraries.  Here are just a few examples of some things that I wish to share with others.

Cleveland Heights Public Library Conversation-It is always good to think positively.  People have a tendency to use negative qualifiers when praising people.  For instance,  that was a great speech, BUT- but becomes the negative, the word that puts just a little bit of twist to the compliment.  Why not stop with the positive .  Chances are the person will ask you for input on what and how to improve their skill set.  And however, however is just but in a tuxedo.

Gypsy Beans and Baking Company- A Cleveland teacher-What do I see for my students?  I see a life of poverty, jail, death, drug addiction for many of them how do I change that? Despair overcame those engaged in the conversation, and then, the life coach spoke.  She said  I see it as a need for an intervention, a chance not to change but to transform.  And hope entered the room.

Brooklyn Centre Garden Club Meeting–I wanted to talk about disconnecting downspouts from the storm sewer system and redirect the water to water lawns, gardens, and flower beds, but decided that I would just talk about joining the National Wildlife Association and how easy it is for us to become wildlife habitats.  And then as I sat there, one after another after another began talking about water filtration, the importance of our watershed–our lakes and streams and how some of them already are watering lawns, ponds, and filtering water through their properties.  Are we at a tipping point?

And finally, last night’s Meet The Bloggers interview with Councilman Joe Cimperman where 15+ listened to Joe answer questions and then, someone else would ask a followup on the same issue for clarification, and whether we were a supporter of Joe’s campaign became less and less important and the issues facing our country and cities moved to the forefront and the exchange of ideas became the reason to be there instead of a political campaign.

And today, who knows where today’s conversation will lead us when the second Midtown Brews of 2008 kicks off at Insivia, with added dimensions-live chats, video broadcasts, and a hookup with Smaller Indiana in the mix.  Go to Midtown Brews, for the details.