Four Hundred Thousand Conversations
For the most part, I know what to expect when I go to a library. Rows upon rows of shelves, sometimes taller than I, filled with books of all kinds. However, books are not the only thing being checked out. Now available in over eighty countries, some libraries let you check out people. That’s right, people. Not just the paperback that has been on your reading list.
Perhaps this is old news to you, but I recently learned about it. It is called The Human Library. It was started in Denmark twenty years ago and is organized as an international non-profit. Library attendees can “check out” a human book and listen to the story of the individual and engage in open dialog and questions. The idea is to engage in listening and conversation that challenges our own preconceived notions and prejudices. The aim is to gain a greater understanding of one another through face-to-face conversations. The human books are volunteers who give themselves a title to match their real life circumstances. Book titles include “homeless”, “refugee”, “Young Mother”, and “Soldier (PTSD)”. Their website proclaims, “We publish people as open books”.
I would love to participate in one of these events. I will keep checking to see if some become available in our area. My uncle says he collects experiences. I always thought that was the coolest response to the “do you have any collections” question. I think I would like to start collecting conversations (which may be an experience itself).
In an interview with Bob Goff, one of my favorite authors and speakers, he mentioned that he tries to have conversations with twelve different people a day. He goes on to say that if you live ninety-two years and have twelve conversations a day, that’s four hundred thousand conversations in a lifetime. Four hundred thousand opportunities to listen to people's stories, to learn about their experiences, to engage in meaningful dialog that can increase our understanding of one another. I am twenty-eight years old. I have a bit of catching up to do if my goal is to reach four hundred thousand conversations (assuming I live to age ninety-two). Perhaps a good place for me to start is with you. I am thrilled to be a part of this special community of faith and look forward to meeting more of you! Although my time at Pinnacle has just begun, it is clear what a vibrant and active church this is. I am blessed to be a part of it. I look forward to witnessing how God will continue to work through us as we minister to those around us.
At the end of his books, Bob Goff includes his cell phone number, encouraging those conversations. I intend to give him a call. Let’s get to talking and let's get to listening. I pray that through our conversations and our open ears, those that we encounter know the power of forgiveness, joy and love as expressed through us.
Grace and Peace,
Brandon Huenemann
Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries