The Hope Diaries Writing Circle

"Despair is a black leather jacket that everyone looks good in. Hope is a frilly, pink dress that exposes the knees." - Rebecca Solnit, Hope in the Dark.

Have you started to grow tired of the doomsday predictions of 'where the world is heading'?

I have! While we obviously need space to observe the horrors, critique systems and acknowledge what's not working, if I don't also take the time to recognise what has changed for the better, a growing sense of despair will come and suck out my life force, leaving me less capable of showing up for the new world I want to build.

This writing circle is about re-activating, amplifying and, at the very least, practising what it is like to hold a position of hope. And I don't mean fluffy, vague, naive 'toxic positivity'. I mean keeping our eyes wide open to what's going on, while exploring how we can protect our own flame of hope and recognise the things that threaten to dampen it.

Through prompts, 10-minute writing intervals and structured facilitation, I will guide the group towards excavating hope from unexpected places. Taking inspiration from Rebecca Solnit's exploration of the small, slow and often overlooked acts of progressive change, together, we'll look backwards in time, uncover stories of change and possibility in our own lives and communities, and explore what we're seeing in the wider world.

By gathering fellow hope-bearers, we can encounter new perspectives, exchange ideas and hopefully reawaken something that has been dormant. Because, hope (much like despair!) is contagious. I want each of us to leave with our own flame of hope a little brighter, feeling refreshed, connected and resourced to take that energy back into our communities and whatever comes next.

This event is perfect for you if you: Care deeply about the world, but sometimes find yourself overwhelmed by its current state. Are curious about social change, collective action and your role in new-world building Want to skip the small talk and make more room for deeper contemplation, writing and creativity Are craving conversations that leave you feeling more inspired, energised and connected to what's possible.

Logistics To open and close the space together, attendees are expected to attend for the duration (2–5pm). Location: Opposite Petersham train station (address supplied). You will be hosted by Sarah and Adam in our home, and joined by up to 4 other guests. Tea, snacks and pens provided. All you need is a notebook :)