Is it a coincidence that standing by a hot fire or splashing in water brings your mind and body right to the present moment? These two building blocks of nature serve as metaphors for the foundations of friendship and community. One spark or splash can have a rippling effect as we gather to be in the presence of, care for, and share life with one another. It’s ritual. It’s survival. Take care of it, nurture it, and put your energy toward it. It will only grow—just like a fire that, once kindled, feeds on our care. My community is elemental: vital, transformative, and alive.