We rarely had soda in the house as a kid. This effervescent, sugary drink was saved for special occasions where, still, moderation was encouraged. Though my dentist and I are grateful for my parent's vigilance, there was a short time in college, with no one policing my soda intake, when I drank entirely too much Cherry Coke. I learned then that too much of anything (especially bubbles) is not so great. This would be consistent with the effect of too many celebratory adult bubbles and the headache that New Year's Day is for those who partake.
A bubble may just be a thin sphere of liquid that encloses air or another gas - but it can conjure up some magical memories from childhood. I think of bubble gum bubbles popping on my face, dunking soapy wands and running with a trail of bubbles behind me and first learning how to boil pasta on the stove. Nowadays, I treat myself to a fizzy kombucha while I shop for groceries and find that water made sparkling with a little carbon dioxide gas does in fact live up to the hype.
Be aware, though, of too many bubbles. The neglected pot of soup bubbling over is just like a community's feelings after long being treated unjustly. Also dangerous is the delusion that the bubble of wealth will protect the privileged few from the world's harsh realities. Bubbles may be a beautiful fantasy, but they never last long. Just think about the Roaring Twenties' stock market bubble that caused the Great Depression and the US housing bubble that led to the Great Recession. All bubbles eventually pop and the past few years have seen bubbles of privilege being burst everywhere.
The word bubbles took a new meaning during the pandemic and staying in them and restricting our in-person interactions with others helped us to feel safe. But we are now dealing with the consequences of having limited contact with people outside our immediate bubbles. In a country already divided, the past few years have only pushed us further into our idealogical bubbles. Of course we all must continue to take our health seriously, but refraining from connecting with new people and participating in diverse communities is only making things worse. It is time that we burst our bubbles of perceived safety and find creative ways to deliberately convene.
So, I would like to raise a glass full of bubbles to you in a toast. May we embrace the year ahead bravely, boldly and safely as we continue the hard work of repairing our nation and breaking out of our bubbles.
And I have just the very place to start…
Out next Virtual Gathering’s Theme is: Bubbles
Please join with your sparkling personality, a snack and a story about your favorite bubbly beverage or food.
When: Community Brunch Pod - Thursday, February 2nd, at 1PM ET / 10AM PT
Virtual Gathering - Thursday, February 2nd, at 8PM ET / 5PM PT
How: Sign up here. Zoom details will be sent on the day of the event.
Cost: $20 to secure your spot (Venmo @communityincontext)
Happy New Year!
Ellen