Finally – a Sense of Community!

THE LION’S TALE – AUGUST 9, 2021

I have been seeking a group of likeminded souls, who believe in love, music and each other. I have come close to this feeling a few times, only to feel a backlash of reality – people are not always who they seem to be. I am sure you have had similar experiences. We all become disenfranchised, disillusioned in one way or another by the antics of other people. Sometimes it’s hard to find someone you can count on to be loving and kind. It’s even harder to find a GROUP of people who will be loving and kind.

Recently, I had two wonderful experiences in this regard. First, I went to a brunch with an old friend at a place called “The Tiny Forest” in Milford, CT. I encountered a magical group of (mostly) women who were warm and welcoming. From the moment I arrived, I felt that I belonged – even ‘tho I had never been there before. We talked and laughed and sang and danced. I will certainly go there again, because the experience of loving community was so uplifting. (www.tinyforestct.com – for more info)

The second experience occurred at the Lion’s Tale Farm and Wellness retreat.(See their Facebook page for more info) Shakedown Street – a band that I’ve known since I was about 22 years old was playing there. I had never been to the Lion’s Tale and with many new situations I was nervous to go by myself. Also, I wasn’t sure I had time or energy to go. Then, I got a text message from a good friend – “Just in the car and come over here!” Yes, I was tired from doing errands and such but decided, “You know what, this is a warm and PERSONAL invitation. People I care about will be there to enjoy this moment with me. This is what I have been waiting for!

So, I literally got in my car and off I went. I am so happy I did! The music was every bit as good as I remembered it. And, the wonderful folks who run the place (Aaron and Meredith) welcomed me as if they had known me for years. Many other fantastic people were there, such as the lead guitarist’s wife – Shirley Frankle. She is always so much fun, so kind, and so welcoming. Many people were beautiful dancers, but this one woman was especially inspirational to me. Almost the whole time, she danced beautifully, wearing one of those long, flowy summer dresses. She inspired me because she seems completely comfortable “in her own skin” and seems to enjoy life to the fullest. Many at this gathering were the same way. One of them even danced with fire! (I will try to post the pics and videos later.) Long story short, the warm embrace I felt from loving people and the uplifting music and the big bonfire, will last with me a long, long time. I felt a sense of community there – that will keep me coming back. Big Thank You to everyone at Lion’s Tale Farm! And special hugs to all the loving people who enjoyed the experience with me.