Community is built through intentional recognition of our natural interdependence. I wasn’t thinking about community when I RSVP’d “Going” to PoleToGlow’s latest event, “Boots on the Ground” a wellness hike. My interest was in supporting the hostesses, Shante and Malika. They bring warmth to my life, and I want to keep the exchange going.
The hike’s theme was “Embracing Summer”, reconnecting with ourselves in nature and releasing tension through movement and reflection. An elevated walk on a Saturday morning works for a sun loving introvert like me. There’s a goal and constant motion, no standing around searching for things to talk about.
While the attendees share a pole studio, Shante and Malika are the common thread and consistently welcoming faces. A round of introductions at our meeting point highlighted mutual home regions and interests. When our carpool caravan arrived at Crowders Mountain we donned sunscreen and bug spray, distributed snacks, and warmed our muscles with dynamic stretches. Shante asked us to reflect on something we wanted to release once we reached the summit.
On our skyward trek, I played human speaker and amateur content attendant. Music keeps me happy and motivated, and I bounced up the trail, hoping the other 17 participants were also enjoying Frankie Beverly, Roy Ayers, and Cameo. We strode, climbed, and dragged up Backside Trail, stopping along the way for short question-based activities to foster further connection, two truths and a lie from Shante and revealing pet peeves courtesy of Malika.
We encouraged each other along the way, punctuated by Meek Mill’s ‘Dreams & Nightmares’ thumping from my backpack as we ascended the final 336 wooden steps to the summit. The effort paid off as we took in the view from the scenic overlook. Standing on the rock formations we took in miles of green stretched out before us, occasionally indented by a single home or a community cluster. A skyscraper millions of years in the making, gifting us an aerial view.
We took pictures on the rocky outcrops to commemorate our presence while birds of prey circled in the background. After a group photo we sat among the rocks and trees with our snacks, enjoyed over conversation and music. Rejuvenated, hydrated, and nourished we gathered to finish our summit ritual.
In a circle, we each shared what we wanted to release, tossing rocks into the center, symbolizing one less thing to carry back down. Two or three less for some of us. I released avoidance, which is rooted in a fear of lackluster creative output. We also shared what we would take with us from the day. I joined the majority of the group with an answer of community. The thing I had not considered with my affirmative RSVP.
A group of introverts, loners, and independent people, came together for a morning hike. Varying degrees of familiarity between us did not hinder our trust in Shante and Malika’s plan. A win for us all, especially our community minded event coordinators. To close our release ceremony, we took three steps back from our rocks and turned away, not looking back before braving one more incline to cross over the peak and start our descent along Tower Trail. Our pace quickened along the gravel path. Lighter and jovial under the tree canopy.
Back at the parking lot, our hostesses thanked us for coming, thanked each other for mutual support, and let us know that another event is coming next month. Physically spent but emotionally energized we shared extended goodbyes as we piled into our cars to leave.
When I said I would take community with me I also shared another recent revelation. I used to think I didn’t like people, more accurately people scare me. I have no idea what to expect and that isn’t exciting for me, it’s anxiety inducing at best and terrifying at worst. Blessedly, my pole community is full of lovely people who I share similarities with.
People who understand the blend of artistry, sensuality, and athleticism. Who are down for mountain adventures and ground themselves in the beauty of nature. People willing to try something new and see where the day takes them. I already know what my RSVP will be for next month’s well aged affair.
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