Building Bridges: Connection Through Conversation

Jon Lynch from Three Rivers Company opened the discussion by examining how people approach conversations in today’s society. He highlighted the common tendency to “hear” while waiting for our turn to speak, rather than truly listening. Jon’s reflection on “victory” in conversation—where one listens to “win” rather than understand—struck a chord with attendees. One participant noted, “Jon’s description of ‘victory’ in conversation resonated with me … quite honestly made me reflect on how many times I do this and will now be more aware of it.”

Kathy Snyder of the Midland Area Wellbeing Coalition encouraged attendees to “be curious, not judgmental.” She introduced the PERMAH Framework, a tool to support personal well-being, with a focus on applying it during challenging times like election season. She also distributed a handout for using this framework in everyday life. An attendee shared their takeaway: “Be curious, not judgmental. Give what you want to receive. And don’t underestimate the importance of empathy.”

Erin Patrice from the Breaking Bread Village closed the program with personal stories of meeting people with opposing views, including a former white supremacist. While their perspectives were far from aligned, Erin’s willingness to listen created an opening for genuine connection. A participant reflected, “What’s important is the ‘LOVE’ we put into conversations with those who differ from us.”