Michael Collins shares an insightful and humorous talk about participating in community building. With the "Essence of Thyme" as his life motto, he gives us the time to pause and reflect on our own reason for being a part of a greater commUNITY. Michael Collins was born in Rosman, North Carolina. Technical Theatre and lighting design became Michael's passion, accumulating 88 productions as a lighting designer and production coordinator. Steven Sondheim's company asked him to take the Pulitzer Prize winning musical "Sunday in the Park with George" on its first National tour, right off Broadway.Upon his return to the Mountains, Michael opened the Essence of Thyme Coffeehouse and Cafe, a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. “Community participation is the way to change the world” is Michael's favorite quote and volunteerism means a lot to him.Michael was a volunteer at the Free Medical Clinic at the Bread of Life facility. Michael is very involved in the local music scene, with two "Jazzlvania" shows on the local White Squirrel radio station, WSQL, the outdoor summer music program called Southern Exposure, and radio show called B – Town, co-hosted with famed drummer Jeff Sipe. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx