Where Belonging Begins
Morning light, tulips and books—the season of becoming begins here
A reflection on finding community through the arts
I've followed the same quiet instinct whenever I’ve moved to a new country or town. Before I’ve even finished unpacking, I begin looking for the books, the paintings, the gardens. The museums, the libraries, the galleries. These have always been my way in. They help me learn the spirit of a place— even before I know its people.
That instinct hasn’t changed now that I’ve settled in Peterborough, New Hampshire.
One of the first places I turned was MacDowell. To live in a town where creativity is nurtured so deeply felt like a gift. I spent time listening and observing, then slowly stepped in. This June, I’ll serve on the committee for Medal Day Benefit (June 28–29), a celebration of artistic achievement and a vital source of support for the fellows who come seeking solitude and inspiration.
Next came the Monadnock Summer Lyceum. For over fifty years, its Sunday morning talks have invited our community into thoughtful dialogue on the issues that matter most. I joined the committee to help behind the scenes, and to learn—through the lens of its speakers—what conversations shape the soul of this region. Our 56th season begins July 6.
Then, the Monadnock Garden Club welcomed me into a world where flowers and conservation meet intention. This August, we’ll celebrate 100 years with a centennial flower show offering beauty, tradition, and community.
And now, my own rhythm begins again through Tahilla Gatherings. On June 19, I’ll host Framing the Unspoken, a day of photography, storytelling, and grace notes with Kate Preftakes. These intimate gatherings are the heart of my creative life— rooted in the belief that a shared table, a quiet trail, or a single image can create space for restoration and connection.
Each of these organizations has helped shape my sense of belonging in Peterborough. I share them here not only because I’m involved, but because they remind me of something I’ve always believed: that community is essential to spirit, to health, and to meaning.
There are so many ways to step into a place—and so many ways to belong.
For me, it often begins with the arts.
For you, it may be something else—a trail crew, a theater group, a book circle, a historical society, a community kitchen.
If you’re nearby and curious, I hope you’ll consider joining one of these gatherings.
And if you live elsewhere, I’d love to know—
How do you get involved where you are?
What communities lift you?
Where do you go to feel connected, inspired, or at home?
Feel free to share in the comments—or email me if that feels more comfortable.
The more we name these threads of connection, the more visible they become—to ourselves and each other.
And in the end, what we lift up, lifts us.
There’s no greater feeling.
Thank you for reading along,
Jeanne xx
