A special book written by special people, one of whom I am lucky enough to know. In their “handbook,” the authors present how to build and sustain a community. Any community (that has love as their message, not hate). Although the authors purposely don’t go into why a community is important, the success of the book alone speaks of its necessity. Instead, the authors break down the process of building and maintaining a community. But it is communities that are highlighted within the book which makes it tangible, taking the timeless idea of “community” and marking it in accordance of our time. With quirky examples, clearly laid-out guidelines, the book inspires. It was what pushed me to make my own swimming mums’ community- “the mermaids.” It also made me rethink of “family” as a “community” and made me shift the goals for our family – to be aware that each member has a responsibility to keep themselves happy as well as other members in our “community.” And most importantly, I learned it’s not geeky to be a “hand-raiser”.
“Don’t bend to fears of losing control…Shift your mindset from stoking the fire to passing the torch. Your community depends on it.”
“Everything I am has come from someone else investing in me”
– Knikole Taylor Edcamp SW Dallas organizer.
Hand-raisers: “These people are your most passionate community members, the hardcore of the hardcore. They always show up. They consistently invite friends. And most importantly, they’re raising their hands – eagerly contributing time and energy towards taking your community to the next level.”
JohannaAirth 