A lot of our gatherings are kind of vague and diluted. The more specific it is, the more people can actually say, oops, nope, this one's not for me. And part of what I'm arguing for is it's okay to say no. It's also okay to exclude. But rather than trying to rally people in the room, make it explicit ahead of time.
You’ve posted a photo of your vaccine card on Instagram. The CDC says it’s okay to leave your bunker. Some of your friends have expressed interest in taking off their masks, breaking the six-foot barrier, and hanging out with you. Do you remember how? Whether you’re anxious about leaving your house or impatient to trade your house slippers for blue suede shoes, we could all use a refresher on how to connect with our fellow humans ... in person — and in a way that is not just pleasant but meaningful. That’s why we’re dusting off one of our favorite episodes, a conversation with Priya Parker, whose book, “The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters,” is essential post-pandemic reading.