This is a casual, low-stakes salon you can join while enjoying breakfast at Chef's Together! Each morning, we'll introduce a different topic for discussion over your meal. At the end or before you leave, you're invited to contribute some words or graphics to a 4-yard-long fabric using special fabric pens I found in Thailand. You can write a word, make a quick doodle, or add anything that represents your thoughts on the topic. Feel free to drop in or leave at any time — no string attached!

We (Lucy, Jmill and Marina) started this series because we wanted to avoid the pressure of small talk or finding someone to share a table with during breakfast. However, we still believe breakfast is a great time to chat with others. If you're like us and enjoy meaningful conversations without the social pressure, please join us!

Monday’s topic is Community: Oasis or Quick Sand?
I've personally experienced many different co-living communities and gatherings. My perception of being in a community is very complicated. Initially, it seemed like the solution to loneliness and a lack of belonging—certainly a place for many lost souls trying to figure out their lives together. The explorations I had were wonderful. I found the love of my life in one of these communities and gradually got closer to understanding what I want to do with my life. The interactions and collisions with people helped shape my "true" self.

But that's just one side of the story. I've also been in situations where I felt forced to be part of the "family" when I didn't want my independence and boundaries crossed. It's also very challenging to focus on work when we're all together in a large community—we often get sucked into different levels of FOMO and struggle to accomplish our goals. Most importantly, wherever there are people, be prepared for inevitable drama that requires mediation or improved communication skills to resolve.

So, what's your perception of and experience with community? What does community mean to you? What communities have you been part of, and what were your experiences? Where do you fall on the spectrum between "oasis" and "quicksand"? What do you want to get out of being in a community? Join us to discuss and illustrate your thoughts on this topic.