In the after-talk discussion and dialogue with Hugh Mackay recently one of the incidental bits caught my attention. He had been talking about the aloneness possible in our current society and mentioned the coffee culture thing where people seek connection by being out to have coffee. I think it is still seen as a bit awkward dining alone but having coffee on your own seems OK and you're never alone if you have a phone. You can sit and drink coffee and peer into that small screen. (I just take a book. Or I could have a book on my phone...)
So what was it that caught my attention? Hugh Mackay mentioned that there is a move to putting in communal tables at cafes. So you can sit down and be joined by others and not sit in isolated splendour. I have wondered about this in relation to creating community. Should I sit at The Lakes having a latte and waiting to strike up conversation with anyone who comes by? Perhaps with a sign that says 'I'm good for a chat!!' Or how about the Colouring Group which takes over several tables to colour and drink coffee and chat. All are welcome. Or Sing Australia with its slogan of 'connecting Australians through singing' and it's policy of taking all comers whether they think they can sing or not.
Now where was I? Ah yes, the communal table. Reminds me of something. That's it. The Lord's table aka holy communion, the Lord's supper. All are invited. All are welcome. All are connected in love. Jesus was well ahead of his time...
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