Interdependence: The Art of Needing and Being Needed

A reflective exploration of how we build reciprocal bonds that honor both autonomy and connection

• "We are islands, but beneath the surface, we are continents."
  — Adapted from John Donne

As life’s scripts transform, we’re called to reimagine connection. This gathering is for those navigating the delicate dance between independence and togetherness, especially when old models of "self-reliance" or "codependency" no longer serve.

Come explore how our lives are woven together, share from the heart, and leave with fresh ways to nurture collective resilience.

Inviting all who are...
🌿 Curious about navigating autonomy within connection
✨ Understanding when solitude fuels connection vs. isolates
💭 Reflecting on reciprocity in relationships
🌀 Sensing that their solitude is part of a larger ecology
🗺️ Seeking maps for belonging in a fragmented world

🗓️ Agenda / What You'll Experience

💬 Icebreaker Conversation Cards (Round 1)

Begin with themed virtual questions cards to spark intimate exchanges. Here are some sample questions.

1. Personal Reflection on Interdependence

• How has your cultural background (e.g., filial piety / Western individualism) shaped your relationship with needing others?
• When did you last feel deeply supported? How did it shift your understanding of giving/receiving?
• Where do you feel tension between 'I should handle this alone' and 'I need support'? What’s one micro-step toward asking?
• How has relying on others strengthened rather than diminished you?

2. Connection with the Interconnected World / Interbeing

• What ‘invisible exchange’ nourishes you daily? (e.g., the oak tree gifting oxygen to your breath)
• Describe an ‘unboundaried’ relationship you have with the more-than-human world.

3. Community & Relational Dynamics

• What 'invisible threads' (e.g., neighbors, strangers) sustain your daily life?
• Where do you sense an invitation to deepen interdependence in your relationships or community?
• What practices help you honor both individuality and togetherness?
• How does your solitude serve the collective?

From there, we’ll embark on a respectful, engaging, and meaningful conversation, celebrating the diversity of perspectives and ideas within the group.

Note: This session may involve virtual question cards accessed via a link or QR code. If you do not have a device (phone/tablet) to access these, please ask a facilitator for assistance; we have spare units available.

💬 Spontaneous Reflection Question (Round 2)

Unless we choose to extend Round One, after warming up, our diverse group of friends and strangers will come together in a circle to exchange ideas on an intriguing topic chosen spontaneously.

Each participant is encouraged to contribute by sharing a unique question. You’re welcome to bring a question that’s been on your mind, or you can draw inspiration from the icebreaker conversation cards provided. Once all the questions are collected, the group will collaboratively select one to kick off the discussion.

From there, we’ll embark on a respectful, engaging, and meaningful conversation, celebrating the diversity of perspectives and ideas within the group.

💬 Final Thoughts and Feedback

Where time allows, in the final 10 minutes of the event, we’ll take a moment to reflect on the key insights, memorable moments, and takeaways from our discussions. This is a chance to distill the shared wisdom and leave with a deeper understanding of the topics we’ve explored together.

After the event officially concludes, the group may choose to extend the session, depending on the group’s interest. Of course, you’re welcome to leave at any time that feels right for you.

An anonymized summary will be shared for sessions where key insights are identified. After the meeting, our facilitators and participants may reflect on the discussion and contribute to a summary or collaborative workbook based on their notes and observations. Additionally, questions may be revisited in future sessions in an anonymized manner. To explore what our events are like, you can browse some of our past meetings archived at curioussoulscafe.substack.com

📍 Location

City: Hong Kong
Address: Empire Centre, 68 Mody Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East

Inside the shopping mall of Empire Centre, there is a large open area dedicated to a café. We will sit at a round table or sofa inside (near a Hang Seng ATM or 7-Eleven store). Please look for the big words "Curious Souls Café" on our table.

If you take the MTR, the nearest station and exit will be East Tsim Sha Tsui Station (Exit P1). From there, you can walk to Empire Centre, which is just a few minutes away.

Google Maps link: maps.app.goo.gl/51Jr8qxY4q5YLQ6q7

🈚 Free of Charge

While there is no charge to attend, we kindly encourage you to support the venue by purchasing a drink and/or any items from their menu.

Note: This event is not affiliated with the restaurant.

✨ What is Curious Souls Café?

Welcome to Curious Souls Café! 👋 Designed to nurture healthy curiosity and foster connections, this is a warm and friendly space for meaningful conversations. 😊 We invite you to join us for an experience filled with thought-provoking dialogue, meaningful connections, and personal growth.

We look forward to meeting you at one of our events in the future!