Wednesday Dialogue Open Mic: Engaging Conversation Starters!

Hi everyone!

I am looking forward to Dialoguing with you all on Wednesday on the topic Open Microphone: Engaging Conversation Starters! I heard that last week there was discussion about trying an “open microphone” design in Dialogue, where everyone has the opportunity to participate actively in facilitation or leading the Dialogue. I think this is great! Specifically, Arthur presented the idea of inviting everyone to come to Dialogue with evocative questions to ask others. I am riding coattails and inviting you all to bring evocative questions to pose to other Dialoguers this Wednesday. I will prepare lots of questions but will be encouraging as much participation from everyone else as possible! Ideally, we will all take turns leading the Dialogue as we ask each other the questions we prepared. This exercise will, as Arthur pointed out, help in developing skills in conversation and listening. It is a great opportunity to get curious, creative, and to tap into our “group genius”!

If you are struggling with where to start, think about a topic that you are generally curious about and ask us a few questions on that topic. The topic could be a passion of yours, something you know very little about, or a topic you would find evocative to be asked about. You might find inspiration from an adage, a film or book, or a particularly interesting conversation you have had with someone in the past.

Some questions I may pose on Wednesday: What was the funniest thing that happened to you in 2021? What is your favorite quality in a close friend? Have you ever surprised yourself by doing something “uncharacteristic” and if so, what led to it? If someone very close to you has ever passed away, what is something special about your time together that you will always be grateful for? If you could only eat two meals for the rest of your life, what two would you choose (what if one can be dessert?!)? What is something you really like about yourself? Thinking about your entire life so far, what is the project you have worked hardest on? I can’t wait to hear all of YOUR questions and answers!

Warmly,

Zenia