Embracing Community and the Wisdom of Trees: Insights from Louise Adongo’s Keynote
Reflections on Louise Adongo’s Keynote at the 2024 Common Ground Gathering
Note: This is part of a series of posts related to storytelling the experiences of the 2024 Common Ground Gathering, held in Indianapolis (May 14–17) in celebration of the 10th anniversary of The Learning Tree.
The first full day of the Common Ground Gathering in Indianapolis, commemorating the 10th anniversary of The Learning Tree, began with an inspiring keynote by Louise Adongo titled “Gathering is Resistance: Community and the Wisdom of Trees.” As an audience member, I was profoundly moved by Adongo’s words, which resonated deeply with the principles of community, resilience, and the interconnectedness of all things.
From the moment she took the stage, Louise’s presence was grounding and uplifting. She began by sharing her gratitude for being part of this celebration, emphasizing the importance of gatherings like these, where connections are forged and possibilities are explored beyond barriers.
The Power of Vulnerability and Connection
Louise spoke passionately about vulnerability and the willingness to see and be seen by others. She asked poignant questions: What are we willing to share? What are we willing to create? Who are we willing to learn from? These questions challenge us to reflect on our own roles in our communities and the changes we wish to see. The essence of her message was clear: true transformation begins with authentic connections and an abundance mindset.
Resilience in the Face of Tragedy
Drawing from her personal experiences, Louise shared her journey of recovering from burnout, particularly her “glass cliff” experience. For those unfamiliar, the “glass cliff” is a term used to describe situations where women and minorities are placed in leadership roles during times of crisis or downturn, making their positions precarious and more likely to result in failure. Louise described her spectacular burnout and how it led her to reassess her motivations and the support systems needed for effective leadership. Her perspective — that things are not necessarily getting worse but being uncovered — was a powerful reminder that uncovering hidden truths can lead to meaningful change.
Cultural Wisdom and Ancestral Roots
Louise’s reflections on her heritage were particularly touching. She spoke about the significance of understanding words in their native languages and the profound meanings they carry. Her story of visiting her ancestral land in Kenya and feeling a deep sense of belonging emphasized the importance of roots and the wisdom passed down through generations.
Gathering as a Form of Resistance
One of the most compelling parts of Louise’s keynote was her exploration of gatherings as a form of resistance. She highlighted the historical context where gatherings were often restricted, yet they remain a powerful tool for community building and collective action. The energy and magic generated when people come together cannot be underestimated. Louise reminded us that gathering is not just a physical act but a deeply spiritual one, where mutual support and shared experiences create a foundation for transformative change.
The Wisdom of Trees
Louise beautifully intertwined the wisdom of trees with her message of resilience and community. She explained how trees, through their interconnected root systems, communicate and support each other, much like the networks we build in our communities. This mutual support is crucial in facing climate change. Trees show us that resilience is not an individual trait but a communal one. For example, the baobab tree, which thrives in harsh conditions and sustains many species, is a powerful metaphor for resilience and resourcefulness. As climate change poses increasing threats, we can learn from trees to support one another, create sustainable systems, and adapt to changing conditions.
Looking Ahead: Sustaining the Next Generation of Leaders
As we look toward the future, Louise challenged us to consider what it means to support and sustain leaders, especially those from marginalized communities. She echoed the gathering’s call for a shift from trauma-based to desire-based approaches, focusing on what we want to create rather than merely surviving hardships. Her emphasis on creating a culture of abundance, where everyone’s gifts are valued and nurtured, was a call to action for all of us.
Conclusion
Louise Adongo’s keynote was a profound reminder of the strength found in community and the wisdom that nature offers us. As we continue to navigate the challenges of our times, her words inspire us to gather, support one another, and seek possibilities beyond barriers. The lessons from her talk are not just for those present at the Common Ground Gathering but for anyone committed to building resilient, connected, and thriving communities.
In the spirit of the trees, may we all find strength in our roots and nourishment in our connections.
