Our culture struggles with loneliness and deep divisions. “A great many people lack genuine feelings of belonging,” notes Parfait Bassalé. There is hope. Bassalé has written a book distilling his life, education, and work experience called The Way of Befriending – Transforming Relationships and Organizations for Belonging. “I wrote this book because I believe befriending is one of the most quietly radical things we can do in response. My premise at the core is we have forgotten or are lost being in relationships we disagree with.”
Bassalé grew up in West Africa and lived in Benin, Niger, and Senegal. His father’s work with an overseas company led to the family’s frequent moves, similar to those in the military. When he immigrated to the U.S., there were new experiences of looking for and finding belonging. “Understanding can be transformative, which is not agreeing,” he notes. The book integrates stories, songs and tools that readers access via a QR code for a more immersive experience. A fully audio version narrated by Bassalé is also available.
Since arriving in Thurston County, Bassalé has worked in and for the community. He was the Executive Diversity Officer at South Puget Sound Community College. Now he provides full-time leadership consulting. He is a highly regarded keynote speaker and musician. Bassalé and his wife Karima are raising their three children in Lacey.
“Parfait is a bright, intelligent and thoughtful person and his book provides a unique perspective with stories and tangible ways of helping to make the world a better place. We’re so fortunate to have Parfait on the OlyFed board of directors. He helps bring together the art, science and heart of community banking to strengthen our mission of advancing the well-being of our neighbors,” says Ryan Betz, EVP/Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer for Olympia Federal.
Befriending begins in small ways. It’s a chat with your elusive neighbor or having a conversation with the barista taking your order. Practice your listening skills. Befriending is a journey that calls for courage, curiosity, and compassion. Parfait’s book can help.
Order books and find events on Parfait’s website, shop locally at Browser, Barnes & Noble or purchase on Amazon.
For Additional Information
parfaitbassale.com
BY MARY ELLEN PSALTIS