Last Wednesday’s community meet-up was a mix of heartfelt farewells and lively discussions on a variety of topics. We celebrated Inge’s final meet-up as our community manager, as she embarks on an exciting new chapter in her career with Oikocredit in the new year. Her years of dedication and support have been a cornerstone of our mission and community, and we couldn’t be more grateful. We wish her all the best as she takes on this new opportunity!
Resilience in the Face of Career Roller Coasters
We kicked off with a heartfelt discussion on career ups and downs. One community member shared her inspiring journey of returning to school in their 50s to pursue an MBA—something she had always dreamed of but found daunting. Graduating during the pandemic, she joined a tech company that, unfortunately, laid off her team nine months later. Despite this setback, she has used the experience to build resilience and connect with her former MBA colleagues, finding new opportunities and support. Her story is a testament to the power of persistence and community.
Fireworks Gone Wrong: A Dangerous Tradition
The topic took a fiery turn as we delved into the unintended consequences of fireworks misuse in Europe. From regulations being flouted to tragic incidents caused by fireworks as explosives, the discussion highlighted the need for stricter controls and the cultural balance between tradition and safety.
From Dreams to Microfinance: Making a Global Impact
Inge's new job at Oikocredit sparked a conversation about microfinance and its transformative power. The idea of offering small loans to empower individuals in developing countries resonated as an example of dignity-driven charity. It’s not just about giving—it’s about partnership and trust.
The Debate on Meatless Fridays
From personal practices to regional differences, we explored how religious abstinence from meat varies globally. Some see it as a simple rule, while others find creative ways to honor the spirit of penance. The conversation even veered into the culinary intricacies of five-bird roasts!
Gadget Woes and Sustainable Tech
The frustrations of modern tech came alive as we vented about non-replaceable batteries and the rise of e-waste. The group collectively agreed that sustainable solutions, like replaceable batteries, should be standard to curb unnecessary environmental impact.
Cultural Mishaps and the Humor of Mispronunciations
A lighter moment had us laughing at the struggle of mispronounced names, especially across languages. From Dutch names to Tolkien-inspired pronunciations, the camaraderie showed how humor can bridge cultural gaps.
You can rewatch the video recording of the livestream in the 'Meetups' section of the community forum.
The next community meet-up is on Christmas day, Wednesday, December 25.
Merry Christmas!
Fr. Roderick Vonhögen
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