Strangers

What happens when you put six strangers at a dinner table together?

Two things can happen…

1. Complete awkwardness. The initial discomfort fills the air, and conversation stays surface level. Questions like "What do you do?" and "Where are you from?" are asked—more to fill the silence than to truly connect.

   
   

2. Curiosity and compassion take over. As the discomfort fades, something deeper emerges. The group shifts from small talk to conversations filled with meaning, openness, and vulnerability—an unspoken agreement to be present, generous, and open.

Last week, I had the privilege of speaking at The Kindness Conference.

My time there was spent sharing insights on The Art of Listening for Leaders, teaching morning mindfulness practices, and taking in the incredible new people, ideas, and experiences the conference had to offer.

When the conference wrapped up, I had an extra day in the Dominican Republic, just for myself. I envisioned a peaceful hammock nap, an afternoon Aperol spritz, and room service in bed to wind down after an inspiring week.

But when I discovered that five other attendees were still on property, I faced a choice:

Door 1: Solitude.

Door 2: An opportunity for connection.

What happened that night over dinner was nothing short of beautiful.

We shared stories, laughed, cried, and forged an unexpected, yet unforgettable bond.

There was an unspoken commitment among all of us to be present, generous, and open.

In the moments when we choose connection- something shifts.

Separateness fades.

Dots are connected.

Ideas sprout.

Self soars.

Connection involves risk, but it’s the kind of risk that can change everything.

When we allow ourselves to be vulnerable and truly present with others, we create space for new possibilities to emerge.

As I reflect on that beautiful dinner, I’m reminded that the most meaningful moments often come from the places we least expect. And that sometimes, the greatest gift we can give ourselves is simply to show up, open, and ready for connection.