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Kalimera
In the kafeneion on our village square, the tables are always there.
They wait for no one — and yet they are never truly empty.
Here, this is called Parea.
On Ikaria, Parea is more than spending time together.
It is a community you can rely on.
People who keep an eye on one another — often without words.
On an island, this is not romantic.
It is essential.
When storms make the sea impassable for days.
When no ship arrives.
When supermarket shelves stay empty.
When the doctor is stuck in Athens during winter.
Then Parea carries you.
Perhaps this is no coincidence.
Perhaps this is one of the reasons Ikaria is counted among the so-called Blue Zones —
places where people tend to live remarkably long lives.
Not only because of the food.
But because of social closeness.
Even waiting outside the post office becomes Parea.
Sitting together, talking, staying silent — and time feels lighter.
Studies show that reliable social connections reduce stress,
strengthen the immune system,
and increase overall life satisfaction.
Those who feel supported live more calmly — and often longer.
Parea means:
I belong.
I am seen.
I am safe.
And at the same time, I remain free.
A small inspiration for your everyday life:
Perhaps it doesn’t take a large community.
Perhaps one person is enough.
Or a fixed moment each week.
A table where you simply sit — and where the waiter already knows you.
Without a goal.
Without a program.
Without having to achieve anything.
An empty chair that says:
There is room for you.
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Perhaps Parea begins exactly where we stop organizing closeness —
and start allowing it.
Warm greetings
from the island
Anna
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