How to make a special gathering

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. The four men harmonised as they sang. A bottle of red wine was open and there was laughter. Although this was a weekly get together between old friends it felt unique. I will remember this, I thought, sitting in the visitor’s chair, an audience of one.

And I do. The memory is lovely at the same time as moving.

I’d come to visit a good friend in hospice who was battling cancer and I was treated to what felt like a special gathering, a private concert, and a beautiful, bittersweet afternoon.

Gatherings are powerful things. They can connect people at a deep level and capture a moment - even when things are grim, as is often seen by taking the smallest glimpse at the news these days.

And when they have things that are important to the people involved, gatherings mean much more. My friend loved singing and music and it was a big part of his life.

When we gather, how often do we think about what can connect people and create a shared sense of togetherness?

It doesn’t have to be fancy or cost a lot of money. And it doesn’t need to involve elaborate details.

When you get together for an event with those you work with, how can you create a gathering that brings people together and celebrates the moment?