日期: 2024-08-18 16:31:40
敖犬，这种忠诚和忠实而又独特的犬品种，在世界上持有了着不朽的地位。作为一种害怕大猫、邻居小动物以及互相冲突的稀土种类，敖犬提� Written at the request of a local organization in search of volunteer facilitators for their weekly discussion group, this article introduces "The Group" and its potential value to any person considering it as part of an educational or career path.
As with most groups that I have been involved with (and probably will be), there is no particular goal that The Group has set out to achieve—though perhaps it will accomplish one, the other day. For now though, my guess is we're simply having a good time talking about interesting stuff. This article describes what "The Group" is, how people can get involved with us, and why I think anyone interested in this subject matter may find the experience to be rewarding.
"The Group" (which you might call The Philosophy Group if you want) meets weekly on Wednesday nights at 7pm. Our meetings are informal but structured—we have a few ground rules for conversation: no talking over each other, we don't take turns to speak; when people share their opinions or ideas it isn't necessary (nor expected) that others agree with them; and there will be ample time given for questions/answers.
We meet in the basement of St Mary's Church Hall on 78 High Street in Chatham, Kent. If you can make it to a meeting or two as an observer before committing yourself fully, that would probably do everyone some good; and if this article has piqued your interest I recommend checking out their schedule online at www.chathamforum.org.uk/groups-events.htmlgroup .
It's important to understand how The Group works—it is a little different from the discussion groups that most people are familiar with; and there seems to be confusion about whether it can actually help in becoming better public speakers or improving your "confidence". These things will certainly happen, but not necessarily by design.
The structure of our group isn't designed around facilitators (like we do for adult education courses) although if you want to lead a session at one point that would be great; in fact, I suspect it might even be preferable since an experienced public speaker could help people improve their skills through conversation and example. But don't think of The Group as being designed around speakers—the purpose is more about creating dialogue between interested participants.
We have two types of meetings: our regular discussion sessions (called "groups") are where we talk about whatever catches our attention; usually this is related to philosophy, psychology or literature but sometimes it's sports, politics and/or the arts too. People can join these groups on a casual basis if they like—there's no pressure to commit yourself long term (unless you choose to).
We also have occasional "Workshops". These are longer sessions where someone with expertise in their subject area leads a more formal discussion, usually involving readings and/or examples that the group can explore together. Again, these workshop-style meetings aren't really designed around facilitators; rather they would be led by people who have something to share (a book, experience or interest) but are open enough about their knowledge base for others to question them, challenge them and/or expand on what is said.
As the article describes The Group as having "no particular goal", this isn't meant to suggest that we don't hope it will achieve something—but rather than aiming at a specific outcome (like becoming better public speakers), our focus instead seems more directed towards creating opportunities for learning, exploring ideas and making new friends.
I mentioned above the possibility of getting involved as an observer before committing to any group sessions; but you'll probably want to consider attending some workshops too since these can be a good introduction into how this format works. (The next scheduled workshop is on 10th November at Chatham Town Hall, starting at 6pm and including dinner).
In summary, if you have an interest in philosophy or psychology—or any other subject for that matter—then The Group might be worth looking into. If this idea appeals to you then please take the time to look through our schedule online; come along as an observer at one of our group sessions and/or workshops, get involved with us when it feels like something worthwhile; or simply read more about what we're up too here in The Chatham Forum.
I hope this article helps you make a decision—whatever your reasons for joining us! I personally believe that if people are open-minded enough to be interested then they can find some good experiences and friends by attending our group sessions, workshops or both. I'm certainly looking forward to hearing about any new members who decide to come along…
Note: This article was originally published in The Chatham Forum online newspaper on 28th August 2015 under the title "A chat with John Spiers" at [this link](http://www.chathamforum.org.uk/articles-679).
Group Information:
Meeting Location and Time: Chatham Town Hall, 38 High Street (Near Market Square) , Thursday nights at 6pm
General Contact Number: +44(0)1235 416 987 (office number for The Group) or visit our Facebook page [here](http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Group/).
How to Join as a Member of the Philosophy Group?
Come along on Thursday evenings at Chatham Town Hall and see how it goes (or come on an earlier night if you wish). If this sounds like something for you, then simply drop in without making any commitments. We meet every week so you don't have to worry about getting stuck into anything immediately—just keep coming back each Thursday at 6pm and we can see what happens; whether or not that suits your schedule (or not), there is no obligation for anyone to stay beyond the first few weeks.
However, if you do decide this might be something you'd like to continue with then after a few sessions join the mailing list on our Facebook page where we can send information about upcoming events and workshops (or simply drop me an email). We don't have a membership fee—if that were needed I guess it would probably come from any contributions made towards food at meetings.
About John Spiers
John has lived in Chatham since he was about 6 months old; and now, with the help of friends over many years (including his wife Jill), he's been involved with a few different things in the town—some long-standing while others have come along more recently. In addition to The Philosophy Group, John is also an active member of Chatham Cares & Neighbours; volunteers at the local library; and co-ordinator for Chatham Festival (an annual community event).
John holds a degree in Mathematics from University College London followed by several years working as a computer programmer/analyst. He spent five or six years managing IT projects on behranst, then left to work with an international charity before eventually returning to the UK after two decades overseas (a big decision that involved retraining as an accountant).
Over the last ten years he's been looking into a wide range of interests and activities; some for fun while others have had more serious consequences—such as being part of Chatham Cares & Neighbours which started when his house was burgled at night. John also used to be very involved in local politics, helping to organise the Liberal Democrats' campaigning efforts (and still occasionally does) but these days he doesn't find it a priority anymore; although there is always something going on locally that needs attention!
John has four children from his first marriage who were born between 1982 and 1987; they are now all grown up, independent adults. He's also got two step-children with his second wife Jill whom he married in September 2015 after meeting over ten years ago at an evening class where both of them were learning French (he speaks some basic Italian too).
John is a keen gardener; and loves being outside, taking walks around Chatham or other parts of Kent whenever possible. He enjoys reading books—anything from non-fiction to historical fiction or children's stories; he also listens regularly to classical music (particularly baroque composers); goes out on a regular basis for dinner with friends who share his interests while occasionally going off into new places just to see what might happen.
As well as being active in various local groups, John does some volunteer work through the church; helping to organize food hampers at Christmas and Easter etc., which brings him a lot of satisfaction (even if he doesn't do any more now than maybe every few years); plus there is always something new going on that needs attention—whether it's for family, friends or neighbours!
In summary, John likes trying out different things and seeing where they lead; but would like nothing better than a bit of peace & quiet in his retirement too…and hopefully being able to get back into gardening without having any more surprises along the way. He's very happy living here though—as he says "Chatham is my home town and will always be one".
John Spiers on Facebook: [here](https://www.facebook.com/groups/chathamcaresandneighbours/) & The Philosophy Group page: [here](https://www.facebook.com/groups/thephilosophygroup)
Note: This article was originally published in the Chatham Forum online newspaper on 30th April 2015 under the title "A chat with John Spiers" at [this link](http://www.chathamforum.org.uk/articles-869).
Group Information:
Meeting Location and Time: Chatham Town Hall, Thursday nights at 6pm
General Contact Number: +44(0)1235 416 987 or visit our Facebook page [here](http://www.facebook.com/groups/thephilosophygroup).
How to Join as a Member of the Philosophy Group?
The philosophy group meets at Chatham Town Hall on Thursday nights (or earlier if you like) for discussions and workshops related to various philosophical subjects. If this sounds interesting, come along to one of our meetings—no commitments necessary; we'll see how things go from there!
If after a few weeks attending group sessions/workshops, you decide that you want more involvement with the Philosophy Group then join our Facebook page or email John Spiers at johnspiers@chatham.gov.uk . We have no membership fees but appreciate any contributions made towards food for meetings and events (please contact John before donating).
About John Spiers
John has lived in Chatham since he was 6 months old; worked as a programmer/analyst for many years including roles with IBM, Capita Group Ltd, Invensys UK & other organisations. He also holds an MSc in Management (University of London), BA Hons in Psychology & Economics (Chatham Town Council), and previously had a degree in Mathematics from University College London.
John currently works as a freelance IT consultant, helping businesses with technology-related projects; has been involved with local politics for the past 15 years including sitting on various committees within Chatham Borough Council; he and his wife Jill are members of Chatham Cares & Neighbours (a volunteer organisation set up by residents after a house burglary); John is also active in local charity work such as serving on the steering committee for 'Through The Night'—an annual fundraising event for Macmillan Cancer Care; and has co-ordinated various events including Chatham Festival, which takes place annually every September.
John enjoys gardening (his vegetable patch at home), cycling/walking in the countrinas (particularly around the Medway Valley); and reading books of all kinds—historical fiction, biographies & crime novels; John is an avid fan of classical music; attends various events organised by local choirs such as Chatham Cathedral Choir which he's been a member for almost 20 years.
John has four grown up children from his first marriage (born between 1983 and 1987); and two stepchildren (aged 20 & 16) who live nearby in the same street as him; John also enjoys spending time with family/friends having dinner together at home or out, catching up over a pint after work/training sessions etc.; he regularly attends Chatham Town Football Club games and supports local amateur football teams.
John is involved with various groups that help support those less fortunate including volunteering through his church (particularly during Christmas & Easter times); helps organise food hampers for distribution through several different organisations such as the Salvation Army, Macmillan Cancer Care etc.; he also attends some social events organised by these groups to help raise funds and awareness.
In summary, John is always looking for something new or interesting that he can try out—whether it's a hobby/interest or volunteer work; his love of gardening has kept him busy over the past few years building up several vegetable gardens around Chatham including one at home (which we hope will provide enough produce for us all throughout summer); he also enjoys exploring new places near and far whenever possible—whether it's by bike or car; but there is nothing better than sitting down with family & friends sharing stories over a meal together!
John Spiers on Facebook: [here](https://www.facebook.com/groups/chathamcaresandneighbours/)
The Philosophy Group Page: [here](https://www.facebook.com/groups/thephilosophygroup)
Note: This article was originally published in the Chatham Forum online newspaper on 23rd July 2eptember).
Group Information:
Meeting Location and Time: Chatham Town Hall, Thursday nights at 6pm
General Contact Number: +44(0)1235 416 987 or visit our Facebook page [here](https://www.facebook.com/groups/thephilosophygroup).
How to Join as a Member of the Philosophy Group?
If you're interested in exploring various philosophical topics, joining the Philosophy Group is an excellent way to delve into deep discussions and workshops related to different subjects. If this piques your interest, come along for one of our Thursday night sessions at Chatham Town Hall—no commitments necessary; we'll see how things go from there!
If after a few weeks attending group sessions/workshops you feel inclined towards more involvement with the Philosophy Group then consider joining our Facebook page or emailing John Spiers, co-founder of Chatham Cares & Neighbours. We don't charge membership fees; however, we do appreciate any contributions made towards food for meetings and events (please get in touch with John before making a donation).
About John Spiers
John has lived in Chatham since he was 6 months old—he moved around quite a bit during his childhood but ultimately ended up returning to the area after attending university. He went on to work for IBM where he spent several years, including time with their Gambit development team (a text-based programming language), before moving onto Capita Group Ltd in 1988 as part of a management trainee programme; then Invensys UK & other organisations over the subsequent two decades. He also holds an MSc degree in Management from University College London and BA Honours degrees in Psychology and Economics (Chatham Town Council).
John currently works as a freelance IT consultant for businesses both large and small; has been involved with local politics on Chatham Borough Council since 2007, including sitting on various committees such as Health & Wellbe Market stall selling home-baked goods to raise funds for our running costs.
John is also an avid gardener who enjoys growing his own produce—we grow everything from sweet peas and nasturtiums in the spring/summer, through aubergines and tomatoes during the summer months, with winter vegetables such as broad beans, parsnips & kale towards the end of autumn. My favourite season is definitely spring when my garden comes alive with colour and new life!
John enjoys reading historical fiction, biographies & crime novels; John's also an enthusiastic fan of classical music including composers like Mozart, Beethoven, Bach etc.; attends various events organised by local choirs such as Chatham Cathedral Choir which I have been a member since 1985 and still attend today despite having left the area several years ago.
I've lived in three different towns within the past fifteen years but always come back to Chatham eventually because of its wonderful community spirit, excellent local amenities & beautiful countryside which is only a short drive away! I like going for walks or cycling around our area; it helps me relax and unwind after work hours.
I have two children (both now teenagers) who attend school locally but we also make regular trips to nearby attractions such as the National Trust properties at Holt & Hythe Castles, The Romney Marshes for wildlife viewing or visiting museums like Chatham Maritime Museum; there are always new things to discover about our own area too! My partner and I both love cooking together using fresh produce from our garden so we've even started experimenting with making our own bread & jams.
In summary, although my life has seen many changes over the years (including moving house several times!) one thing that hasn't changed is my passion for growing food in my garden; whether it be vegetables or herbs which can then be used to create delicious meals at home with loved ones! This hobby gives me immense satisfaction knowing where our food comes from as well as providing an opportunity for sharing produce with friends & family members during harvest time when there's plenty left over after ourselves have eaten what we need. It truly is amazing how much joy such simple activities bring into your life...
John Spiers on Facebook: [here](https://www.facebook.com/groups/chathamcaresandneighbours/)
The Philosophy Group Page: [here](https://www.facebook.com/groups/thephilosophygroup)
Note: This article was originally published in the Chatham Forum online newspaper on 23rd July 2018 & August 4th, 2019.
Group Information:
Meeting Location and Time: Chatham Town Hall, Thursday nights at 6pm
General Contact Number: +44(0)1235 416 987 or visit our Facebook page [here](https://www.facebook.com/groups/thephilosophygroup).
John Spiers' Background and Passion for Growing Food
John Spiers, a member of the Philosophy Group in Chatham, has been living in the town since he was born. He first moved to the area during his teenage years when his father secured work with Cammell Laird shipyard on Chatham's North Quay. John then returned home after completing university at Leeds University and worked for several large companies such as IBM, Capita Group Ltd., Invensys UK Ltd, and others in various locations across the country.
His interest in growing food stems from his father, who had a passion for it too. They used to visit a nearby market together on Sundays when John was younger. Additionally, living at home with extended family members during school holidays allowed him to spend time helping them tend their vegetable patches and gardens.
Since moving back to the town 23 years ago after having children, John has developed his own passion for growing food in his garden. He focuses on growing a variety of crops that he enjoys eating, including sweetcorn, runner beans, courgettes & marrows, red peppers, salad leaves and lettuce, tomatoes (including black & cherry varieties), broad beans, broccoli, spinach, spring onions, herbs such as parsley, chives, thyme, sage, dill, fennel, sweet basil, French tarragon, and lemon balm. He also grows vegetables like cabbages & cauliflowers that he shares with friends who have limited garden space but still want to participate in the process of growing their own food.
John Spiers' Involvement in Chatham Cares & Neighbours Group (CCN)
Before becoming a member and co-founding CCN, John worked for Capita Group Ltd. during his first career break after university. He then returned to Leeds University where he gained valuable management experience working on various projects related to housing, environmental issues, youth unemployment, social exclusion, and healthcare reform.
In 2014, John made a significant life change by taking early retirement from his previous job and returning to Chatham as an IT consultant for small businesses in the local community. Throughout this journey, he has been deeply involved with CCN. Initially joining the group when they were just starting out, John now holds multiple roles within the organization. He is a member of the Management Team (MT), a trustee on the Board of Directors (BoD) and Committee, as well as serving on various working groups such as Project Planning & Supporting Groups.
The Philosophy Group in Chatham: A Hub for Intellectual Exploration
The Philosophy Group was established nearly four years ago by a small group of friends who shared an interest in philosophy, politics, and intellectual exploration. They recognized the lack of such opportunities within their community and decided to create a space where like-minded individuals could gather to discuss topics that stimulated their minds.
The primary objective of the Philosophy Group is not solely focused on philosophical concepts but rather on fostering a supportive environment for open, respectful, honest, and critical conversation. The group's weekly meetings take place in an informal setting at various venues across Chatham Town Hall (CHT). Each month, the group explores a different theme, with occasional guest speakers adding to the discussions.
The Philosophy Group attracts participants of all ages, backgrounds, and belief systems. The group's success lies in its ability to facilitate diverse viewpoints and engage in thoughtful conversations on various topics. While philosophy may be one area of interest among many, it serves as a foundation for discussions that delve into deeper questions about human existence, societal issues, morality, and more.
The Philosophy Group's Mission and Impact
In its early stages, the Philosophy Group has already made significant strides in creating a supportive community within Chatham. The group primarily consists of individuals who are passionate about engaging with new ideas, diverse perspectives, and critical thinking. While philosophical discourse is just one aspect, it provides a platform for exploring broader societal issues.
The group's mission extends beyond philosophy; it aims to foster intellectual growth, promote empathy, and encourage individuals to challenge their own beliefs and assumptions. By creating an inclusive space for open dialogue, the Philosophy Group seeks to contribute positively to the community in Chatham Town Hall.
The success of the group can be attributed to its diverse membership and the genuine desire among participants to engage with others who may have different perspectives. This has resulted in enriching conversations that go beyond philosophy, allowing individuals to broaden their horizons, develop critical thinking skills, and gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.
Conclusion
John Spiers' journey from his childhood garden experiences to his involvement with CCN and the Philosophy Group in Chatham showcases the power of shared interests and community engagement. Through growing food together, John has not only developed a passion for nurturing crops but also fostered connections within his extended family. Similarly, the Philosophy Group serves as a platform for individuals to come together, exchange ideas, and explore complex topics in a supportive environment.
Both endeavors exemplify the potential of communities to create spaces where diverse perspectives can flourish, leading to personal growth and collective progress. Whether through cultivating gardens or engaging in philosophical discussions, these initiatives demonstrate the transformative power of shared interests and meaningful connections.
