Join or Die: A Revolution to Reconnect: A film that challenges our disconnection—and invites us to choose belonging over isolation.

An Evening of Inspiration, Community, and a Call to Belong

JD Schramm, from our local Modern Elder Academy cohort, brought us together recently for a powerful screening of the new Netflix documentary Join or Die. The event felt like: Join and Start Living!

I left deeply moved by the story of Robert Putnam—the Harvard professor whose groundbreaking book on the decline of American community life brought him all the way to the White House. His work underscores a truth we urgently need to remember: our sense of community is not just a nice-to-have—it’s essential to our democracy, our public health, and our personal well-being.

Over time (and rapidly with the rise of tech), Americans have been withdrawing from communal activities, leading to a stark drop in what Putnam calls "social capital." Join or Die is a powerful invitation to reflect on that trend—and more importantly, to do something about it.

Rather than spoil the film, I’ll simply say: watch it. Share it. Talk about it with friends. Let it inspire you to join something that matters.

Nature as Our Portal Back to Connection

For me, Forest Therapy is one of the most meaningful ways I’ve found to create and sustain connection—not only with ourselves, but with each other and the Earth. We are part of our ecosystem, though many of us have forgotten that truth.

Forest therapy can be practiced anywhere in nature—it’s not about getting somewhere, but about fully arriving where you are. Through mindful time in nature, we remember. We reawaken. We reconnect.

Inspired by Impact

At the screening, I also learned about two amazing organizations doing the work of rebuilding community:

• Build IRL (in real life) – Hosting real-world events that bring people together in meaningful ways.

• The SF Commons – A collaborative space fostering human connection and shared values.

Upcoming Offering: Sunset Forest Therapy + Silent Disco

Saturday, May 9th | Ocean Beach | Free

I’m thrilled to offer an experience that brings all of this to life. Join me for a Forest Therapy walk + Silent Disco at sunset on Ocean Beach. This unique gathering is designed to awaken your senses, move your body, and ground you in presence. We’ll close the evening with a bonfire and a chance to connect.

✨ Meditate. Move. Reconnect.📍 Ocean Beach🕓 Friday, May 9th, 6 pm-9.🔥 Bonfire to follow💌 Email wendyfigone@yahoo.com to hold your spot💚 This offering is free, I am looking for people to help bring wood and snacks. This is an alcohol free event.

Let’s not just “join”—let’s truly start living.