Sync Life Book Club is discussing “The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters” by Priya Parker.

In the book, Parker argues that the gatherings in our lives are often lackluster and unproductive. She says we rely too much on routine and the conventions of gatherings when we should focus on distinctiveness and the people involved.

Coming together is a ritual for most of us, one that began very early on— perhaps with our Christening or first birthday party.  However, through the years as we sat in boring meetings or made small talk at a party, the child-like anticipation of coming together began to falter and we “rolled our eyes and hum-drummed” at the thought of another event— be it family, friends or co-workers.

But many of the best things happen and the best memories made when we gather.  No matter how far we go with technology—texting, emailing, conference calls, nothing will ever replace coming together in person to learn, celebrate or even grieve.

“Thank goodness for this book. It opens new ways of thinking about wonderful gatherings with a delicious confection of smartly-defined concepts and detailed examples. Hosts of all kinds, this is a must-read,” Chris Anderson, owner and curator of TED, said.

Led by Daryn DeZengotia, the book club meets Wednesday mornings at 10 a.m. in the parlor at Central Christian Church and everyone is welcome. 

Daryn is taking the book by chapter and next Tuesday the club will discuss Chapter 3, so you can easily catch up.

Come gather with us and let’s learn together how to create meaningful, memorable experiences for work and play. For more information contact the church office at 214-526-7291.