The other day I had the privilege of talking with some people about The Table Talk Project and how its about supporting families around the dinner table to have conversation and build better relationships. There face turned and they said “Neil, we don’t eat at the table, we are just too busy and none of our family any time of the week are home at the same time”. I said “thats ok, the table is not one that is just a physical element. Its more about the gathering”. You see we are very good at putting up barriers to have conversations, to gather and to connect with each other. When something comes along like TTTP we think of all the ways that could stop us from gathering. What I want to talk about in this blog is all the ways you can still gather even though you are not at a table.
In a world where routines can often dictate our actions, the image of a family gathered around a table for a meal has been deeply ingrained in our societal consciousness. We’ve been conditioned to believe that the dining table is the quintessential gathering place, where conversations flow freely, laughter echoes, and bonds strengthen over shared meals. But what if I told you that the table might look different for every family?
Indeed, the idea of gathering for meals and meaningful conversation doesn’t have to be confined to a traditional dining table. It’s about the essence of coming together, not the physical space in which it happens. Perhaps it’s time to challenge the notion that meals must always be eaten at a table and instead embrace the myriad of possibilities for gathering.
Picture this: a family sitting cross-legged on the floor, passing dishes of food around as they engage in lively conversation. Or envision a car ride, where a quick bite from a drive-thru is accompanied by heartfelt discussions about the day’s events. These scenarios may seem unconventional, but they serve as reminders that the essence of togetherness transcends physical boundaries.
Enter The Table Talk Project—a movement aimed at encouraging families to gather regularly for intentional conversations over meals. But here’s the twist: it’s not just about sitting around a table. It’s about creating space, wherever that may be, for meaningful connection and dialogue.
The beauty of The Table Talk Project lies in its flexibility. It recognises that every family is unique, with its own dynamics, traditions, and preferred gathering spaces. Whether it’s a picnic in the park, a cozy corner of the living room, or even a virtual meeting online, the important thing is that families are coming together, sharing meals, and engaging in meaningful conversation.
So why does it matter where we gather? Because the space we inhabit can influence the quality of our interactions. When we break free from the confines of a traditional dining table, we open ourselves up to new possibilities for connection. We become more attuned to the present moment, more receptive to each other’s perspectives, and more appreciative of the simple joys of shared meals and conversation.
In a world that often prioritises busyness over connection, The Table Talk Project serves as a powerful reminder to slow down, savour the moment, and prioritise meaningful relationships. It’s a call to action for families everywhere to carve out time in their busy schedules to come together, share meals, and nourish both their bodies and their souls.
So the next time you gather with your loved ones, don’t feel constrained by the confines of a traditional dining table. Instead, embrace the opportunity to create your own unique gathering space, wherever that may be. Whether it’s on the floor, in the car, or even outdoors under the stars, let the spirit of togetherness guide you as you engage in The Table Talk Project and make meaningful connections that will last a lifetime.
Let us know where you have meaningful conversations with the family? Is it at the dinner table, or some other place? What are your barriers? We would love to know. Get in touch with us here.
