I have received following amazing and inspiring accounts from our departing member Sophia:
I registered with the Southwest London Greenpeace group website just over a year ago. I've attended only 3 'official' meetings over the course of the past year and last night unfortunately will be my last meeting for a little while so I thought I'd write up a little something as a reflection and maybe somekind of inspiration for anyone who may be thinking of or hesitating to get involved. I think you know what I'm going to say....... Do it!!!
To be honest my involvment has been super minimal in terms of actual campaigning and all the 'rah rah' stuff that GP is all about - not that that was intentional but the timing just didn't seem to fit when things actually came up. However, I did manage to attend a social night and even hosted one at my home which was a great experience. I also participated in the Lobbying & Advanced Communication workshop in Islington last summer which I would HIGHLY recommend to anyone - even if you don't join a local GP group. Attending the course that day gave me the confidence and motivation I needed to finally meet my MP and to learn a bit more about this whole system which we are all apart of but feel so detachted from.
So overall, I guess I just wanted to say that it may not necessarily be the quantity of time that you are able to commit too when it comes to Greenpeace matters but the quality. I have very much enjoyed the few but very fun events I've been a part of - up until last night when I met some wonderful people for the first time and had really great chats! I see these gatherings as a great support in times when you just want to slip out of the mindless mainstream and talk about some real, hardcore GREEN ideas that really seem to matter. It's so energising and refreshing!
However, the time has now come for me to leave London with my partner and embark on a seven month cycle tour of the UK to learn permaculture farming along the way - which is why last night was a final meeting for me. And of course everything seems to start really happening just when you're about to leave the party! Last night they were planning more social nights, film nights, combined events with other local groups, bake sales and loads more! I really wish you all the best and I'll be checking in as well when I can along my journey so see how you're all doing.
Rock on SW London GP and good luck!!
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