Jules, the shared suppers stayed with me. That is where a faraway place can begin to feel like a community.
When I think about closer ties between Canada and Europe, I wonder what we could learn from one another close to the ground: growing food, caring for shared spaces, or keeping a small community gathering place alive. An exchange need not be grand to be useful.
I also wonder who gets the chance to take part. Travel costs, time away from work and responsibilities at home could put those experiences out of reach.
What would a worthwhile exchange look like in your community—including for someone who cannot travel?