Multitudes II attracted attendees from many walks of life, many ages, many backgrounds, many gender orientations. I was buoyed right from the hiccups on Day One that this was a problem-solving, no-nonsense, positive, creative group of humans. Everyone pitched in. Everyone forgave. Everyone made the decision to have a great time. Alex and Vienna, Leah and Amy, set a "get it done" vibe and there was no hesitation by the rest of the group to follow.
The conference exceeded my expectations. I felt cared for, respected, and seen. Food was plentiful, healthy. Liked the self-service at mealtimes and clean up times. Each of the three evening events (Mexican, Climate-Action, and Permission) were fabulous. I learned so much from each. It seemed like a LOT of work for the staff, though. Choice of activities was through the roof. Music was a theme threaded throughout, but there was also adequate space for so many other interests to shine.
Liked the choose your own adventure afternoons for resting, conversation, or individual interest activities. What an amazing variety of things to choose from.
Liked the Multitudes Jam for creating a space to shine a light on peoples' other interests and talents.
Like the "Valentines bags" idea for personal notes to attendees and staff.
Loved the cabins and the setting in the woods.
By the end of the last full day, people had bonded so well, that deeper conversations were had in many places. If another day or half day were added, we could have taken advantage of those new connections even more. As it is, Signal seems to be exploding with excitement, in-jokes, and general Multitude craziness! The fun and connections continue! Hooray! Like that there's already talk of mini-Multitudes meet ups and cookie exchanges. We just don't want to let go of these new friends.
In reflection, the Multitudes creativity, kindness, group hugs, and respect were things I sorely needed right now. I so appreciated the mental break it provided from the political craziness of the past year.
Can hardly wait for Multitudes III! Maybe I'll finally get to hike or get in the hot tub.