The Words Between Us: How Language Shapes Our World

"The limits of my language mean the limits of my world."
— Ludwig Wittgenstein

Have you ever been deeply moved by a single word? Have you ever struggled to explain a feeling because your language didn't seem to have the right one? Or found that switching between languages feels like switching personalities?

Language is our most powerful and subtle tool for building reality. In this Curious Souls Cafe, we'll explore the fascinating, personal side of linguistics. We'll share stories about words that have shaped us, discuss the quirks of communication, and ponder how the languages we speak influence the thoughts we think.

No expertise required—just your personal experience as a human who uses words every single day.

Inviting all who are...

💬 Fascinated by the power and pitfalls of everyday communication.
🌍 Curious about how speaking different languages might shape different worldviews.
🤔 Intrigued by slang, jargon, and how new words are born.
😊 Prone to overthinking a text message or replaying a conversation.
✨ Interested in how we build bridges (or walls) with the words we choose.

📅 Agenda / What You'll Experience

💬 Icebreaker Conversation Cards (Round 1)

We will begin the session with meaningful conversation cards. You'll have the opportunity to pick a card and initiate thought-provoking conversations with fellow attendees. Here are some sample questions.

• What's a word or phrase from your childhood or culture that you love, but is difficult to translate perfectly?
• Describe a time a simple misunderstanding of words led to a funny or meaningful moment.
• What's your "pet peeve" word or phrase that people use, and why does it get under your skin?
• Do you feel like you have a slightly different "personality" or way of thinking when you speak a different language?

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 Reflective Question (Optional Round)

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. We may either continue with questions from the round one, or write our own questions.

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 conversation cards provided. Once all the questions are collected, the group will collaboratively select one to kick off the discussion.

💬 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, visit our official website at https://curioussouls.cafe

📍 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, or any third-party names mentioned.

✨ 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!