Sr. Simone Campbell is hitting the road, visiting bookstores to listen to people’s stories and discover where they are finding hope in these challenging times. Each day, she shares a heartfelt "postcard" capturing the voices, struggles, and aspirations of those she meets, offering a glimpse into the power of connection and community.
What a surprise Muskegon was!! It was our first dialogue event at a library. We were at the Norton Shores branch of the Muskegon Area District Library (or MADL) with a crowd of 83 people (plus some staff at the library). I had never thought that our dialogue process could work in a large group, but I was wrong. We had a great conversation that included many in the room.
I started off briefly summarizing my book Hunger for Hope and my contemplative practice and learning to talk about it. For years, I kept my prayer practice private, but thanks to Father Mike Crosby's encouragement, and my religious community’s need, I learned to speak from the “inside out” and share a bit of my contemplative practice. They taught me the importance of being more public with my spirituality.
The conversation took a poignant turn as we delved into the history and identity of Muskegon. The community's roots are deeply intertwined with hard work, industry, and a rich cultural heritage, including the Anishinaabe people. However, the pain of racial segregation and economic disparity still lingers, a reality that the community is actively working to address. One of the challenges is that in this small area there are 28 governmental units that are fiercely independent. I mentioned that we could not find downtown and was told that this was a concerted effort to cut it off by putting the highway through. (After the event the director of MADL, Ron, took us to “downtown” that is beginning an economic recovery anchored by the weekly farmer’s market.)
One of the participants in her thirties said that when she was in high school, her advisor said that she was smart and should leave Muskegon. The person said that there was nothing for her in Muskegon—a dying community. Luckily, she decided to come back after college, but she is the only one in her high school class who left and came back. She is concerned that if there are no youth in town, what will be the future of this renewing town.
One of the most striking aspects of Muskegon is its resilience and the positive changes are taking place. From new educational initiatives to environmental clean-ups and community gardens, there's a palpable sense of hope and progress. The interfaith collaboration and the strong arts and culture scene are also noteworthy, providing a rich tapestry of experiences and opportunities for residents.
A particularly moving moment was when a newcomer shared their positive experiences of Muskegon, highlighting the community's welcoming nature and the beauty of its surroundings. This sentiment was echoed by many, reinforcing the idea that Muskegon is a place of potential and growth.
As we discussed the importance of sustaining long-term tension with the dominant culture, I was reminded of a recent visit to Rwanda. The lessons of forgiveness and community from the Rwandan genocide survivors resonated deeply, underscoring the power of collective healing and the necessity of community in overcoming adversity.
My reflection on the day is the delight and the surprise that a large group could do this dialogue process with engagement and energy. It made me realize that when you start the conversation with history, everyone has something to add.
Thank you, Muskegon, for your openness and for sharing your journey with me. Let's continue to nurture hope and build a community where everyone feels seen and valued.
