Us blokes, we feel the need to fix stuff.
Back in 2022, I created a club for two reasons. Firstly, I wanted to support a mate of mine. He was and still is going through some tough times. Secondly, I found plenty of articles about loneliness in men.
I'm not a trained or qualified counsellor, and sometimes I need help too. But what I do have is a handy ear to bend.
Us 'blokes' think we need to come up with a solution to help or solve a problem. Sometimes, the answer is to be there for someone, spend time with them and chat nonsense. I'm good at talking nonsense; I can do it for hours.
Back to my mate, I didn't and won't have a solution for him. And that's okay. I can give him my time, presence and an ear if he needs one. More often than not, saying I'm not okay, things aren't great at the moment, with no explanation other than that, might be the only words which need to be muttered or heard. I'm not the only one who finds it difficult to vocalise what's on my mind. One issue seen or heard in isolation might not sound like much, but stacked up against everything else which is going on in our lives, it can become overwhelming.
The Blokes Supper Club was born out of the idea that sometimes, a good old chat over dinner can be the simplest yet most effective remedy for our struggles.
My initial goal was to create a space where mates could gather, share a meal, and talk about anything and everything – no judgment, no pressure, just genuine camaraderie.
Our gatherings are more than just about enjoying a good meal; they are about fostering connections and providing an environment where we can chat.
The beauty of the Blokes Supper Club lies in its simplicity. There are no structured therapy sessions and no formal agenda. It's just a bunch of mates coming together to enjoy each other's company and offer support when needed.
Sometimes, the best therapy is found in the shared laughter, the friendly banter, and the knowledge that you're not alone in your struggles.
As I reflect on the journey of the Blokes Supper Club, I realise that the power of connection is immeasurable. We may not have all the solutions, but we have each other, and sometimes, that's more than enough.
The club has become a testament that a simple dinner with mates can be transformative, offering an ear and support in a world that often feels isolating.
So, if you're a bloke looking for a place to be yourself, share your burdens, or enjoy a good meal with mates who understand, the Blokes Supper Club might be for you. Because in the end, it's not about fixing everything – it's about being there for one another, one supper at a time.
Of course, the supper club isn't mine - it's for everyone. If you fancy creating a club where you live, feel free. In addition, it doesn't just have to be for blokes; invite your tribe of like-minded people.
Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash
Further Reading