Wellbeing - being a man

What does being a man mean to each of us at any stage of life?

For me, in addressing this, I find it useful to talk about the good things, the things we find tricky, and how we can enjoy, even celebrate, being men.

I’m less interested in telling anyone what needs fixing and more interested in having open conversations, listening to each other and seeing what we can learn along the way.

Over the years, I’ve been involved in men’s work through seminars, workshops and retreats. These days, I prefer something simpler: a men’s group where we can get to know one another, talk honestly and explore what matters to us. It’s a caring, trusting space, with room to make statements, ask questions and gently challenge each other too.

The current group I facilitate has been meeting for 22 years.  In that time, I’ve seen men make useful changes in their relationships, with their children, in their communities, around their health, in balancing their finances, at work, etc.

David and I have been wondering whether some of the men at the Shed might enjoy a space like this.

There are guidelines to help everyone feel comfortable and keep conversations respectful. It’s not about blaming anyone or fixing the world—just being willing to share, listen and offer a thought or some advice when it’s welcome.

If you’re curious, come along at 4 pm on Wednesday 11 November.

I’ll share about how such groups work effectively, and we can have a relaxed chat about what a group at the Shed might look

like.

There’s no pressure to commit—just a chance to ask questions and see whether it feels like something you’d like to be part of.

Geoff Paull