Every time I come here I am surrounded by friends

​

Though I hardly know any one of your names, certainly not your numbers, and definitely not your favourite animals

Silently looking on, enraptured, I find myself full, brimming even;

​

For this is what belonging must feel like

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We have had so many conversations simply by sharing performances, glances, and applause

In-between souls when reality comes-to, warm faces and voices have found their way to me

​

Every time I come here I am surrounded by friends

​

Little did any of you know all the band-aids you've put on my heart simply by being here listening with intention and letting me share something personal wrapped in metaphor

​

You welcome me to connect with you;

In collective mourning

In haphazard monologues

In soulful poetry

You welcome me to connect with you;

In lung-rattling songs

In voices that reach the rafters

In fingers picking, strumming, tapping

…In five minute dish-washing breaks and felt fez hats…

​

You welcome me to connect with you;

In community for community

This is belonging

​

Quite frankly I'm not sure how many of you know my name, if we'll ever see each other again, or if you'll even remember me the moment you leave

You don't know my favourite colours, last name, or how I take my tea

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Yet every time I come here, I am surrounded by friends

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• N25