Gifts of the Heart at Ye Old Barter Party

I was invited by Dan Frey, the President of City Voices, to a swap party called “Ye Old Barter Party,” held at Fountain House on Saturday, July 25, 2026.

We were asked to bring items we no longer needed so we could swap with others. I carefully searched my home and gathered things I thought others might like. It felt good knowing someone else might want what I had to share.

The party was held in the large Living Room, with many couches and chairs scattered around. A piano sat in the back of the room, giving the space a warm feeling. There was water and snacks. We entered with our goods, each eager to find a spot to display our wares. There were clothes, books, knick-knacks, kitchen supplies, even a sexy garment, etc.

At first, I slowly walked around, eyeing the goods as the bartering was supposed to begin at 3:00 pm. I wondered how the swap would work, but it soon became clear that hardly anyone was actually bartering. Instead, people simply walked around, and if they liked something, they took it—no trade required. Or they found someone and offered them something they thought that person would enjoy. It worked beautifully. This gathering was more than a barter.

I had conversations with many people I had never met before, and we found ourselves sharing from the deepest parts of who we are. We were open and vulnerable, and some conversations ran deep. It felt safe, loving, and caring. We were One in a circle of many.

We learned about each other through the items we brought. One woman wanted to give herself more time to “just be,” and she found the perfect book. Another woman took the sexy garment, and I could see it made her feel good. I had brought a new salt shaker, and it put a smile on someone’s face. (Sometimes it’s the little things that make us happy.) One man offered me a kitchen gadget—since I love to cook, it was the perfect gift. There was something for everyone, and we didn’t need to swap. Dan was even made to try on a shirt, which we all loved, and he looked great. And so it went on for several hours until we had all exhausted our wares.

This day was magical. It was more than a bartering party. It was a place where we met new people, had meaningful conversations, and learned about each other through the things we brought. It was about people sharing with each other on a deeper level.

We were giving each other a part of ourselves through our offerings. Dan tells me it’s about connections and making new friends. Yes, Dan, you are right. Many of us live in our own bubble, keeping to ourselves and maybe fearful of reaching out. You have created a beautiful, loving, safe space where people can learn about each other while learning about themselves.

When we open our hearts to others, we open our hearts to ourselves, and then we can feel our Soul become more alive—more open to life.

I left with an open heart, and I would bet everyone else did too.

Thank you, Dan, for giving us the opportunity to be ourselves.

It Was a Day to Shine, a Day to Heal.