Building our Community, Building Relationships

Getting to know you

By Bruce Tomar

As I was thinking about this article, one of the themes that struck me was community. As we as FJMC International strengthen our bonds to our regions and clubs, and reach out to individual members and our brothers across the pond, how do we build community?

One word: relationships.

We have always been pretty good at building relationships. We meet old and new friends at retreats and conventions. We pick up the phone or meet on Zoom.

But do we really know the brothers we talk to all the time? And how should we go about really learning about them?

One place to start – and I highly recommend it – is Ron Wolfson’s book, Relational Judaism. Ron develops, step-by-step, not only how to relate to others but also how to relate to yourself, your family, your religion, etc.

Here’s another quirky but fun way to learn about others: “The Steven Colbert Questionert.” It could also work as a Hearing Men’s Voices ice breaker. Its 15 questions are designed to really get to know someone.

Anyone fancy doing the questionnaire? Here are the questions:
1. What’s the best sandwich?
2. What’s one thing you own that you really should throw out?
3. What is the scariest animal?
4. Apples or oranges?
5. Have you ever asked someone for their autograph?
6. What do you think happens when we die?
7. Favorite action movie?
8. Favorite smell?
9. Least favorite smell?
10. Exercise: worth it?
11. Flat or sparkling?
12. Most used app on your phone?
13. You get one song to listen to for the rest of your life: what is it?
14. What number am I thinking of?
15. Describe the rest of your life in 5 words

Please enjoy building your relationship with someone.

Until next month, Live Long and Prosper!

Bruce Tomar is president of FJMC International.