Name:
Amal Amarsi
Chapter:
Ringwood (I originally started at the Warrandyte chapter)
What is your story?
So many chapters, and stories within them - but ultimately I’m just a guy who is fortunate to be where I am in life, (alive) living in a great part of Melbourne’s outer east where I feel connected to the community, with a loving wife, two beautiful boys, and extended family nearby. I’m from a blended culture, born in New Zealand and raised in Melbourne. My Mum is originally from Los Angeles, my Dad is a Fiji-Indian, and like many second generation Aussies life was/is a melting pot of cultures; Hindi festivals and Gujarati food, AFL games and Vegemite sandwiches.
How long have you been with TGBC? First Book?
My first meet was in August 2023, talking about A Moveable Feast by Hemingway.
How did you end up coming to TGBC?
I read an ABC news article about male loneliness while waiting at a medical appointment. The article included an overview of what TGBC is all about, and a link to the website. I’ve always been an avid reader, and had been looking for a way to break out of the insular lifestyle I’d become stuck in, so I clicked through and found that Warrandyte was my closest chapter. I was at the next meet, have read every book since, and been to every month’s meeting bar one.
What is your favourite TGBC book?
We Have Always Lived In The Castle, by Shirley Jackson. Chillingly gothic, heart-rending, and open to interpretation. Books like these make for a great discussion on the night.
Why are you a member of TGBC?
When I turned 40 I did some reflecting and came to the realisation that I was lonely. Over the previous years I’d built something of a cage for myself by telling myself that my responsibilities were my work and looking after my family. I used those responsibilities as an excuse not to get involved in community activities or pursue my own hobbies and interests. I’d also stopped prioritising friendships with mates. While the demands of work, raising 2 young boys, and being a supportive husband are intense, the lack of balance in my life meant that I was bored and pretty miserable. And as a result, I wasn’t always being the person, the father and partner that I wanted to be. Since joining TGBC, I’ve made some genuine friends and have experienced a bunch of stuff I wouldn’t have otherwise: camp and everything that entails, going to events and shows with new friends - a highlight was seeing a Japanese punk band, a hot sauce making phase, and more. I’ve also had the opportunity to be part of forming a new Chapter in Ringwood as the chapter sergeant, and am super grateful for the fantastic group of goons who I get to share a beer and swap stories with each month.
What is a "Tough Guy"?
I think a Tough Guy is someone who is open minded, someone who treats others with respect, and aims to leave a positive impact on others.
What is your favourite library?
I’ve always joined local libraries as I’ve moved across suburbs. But the one that stays with me is the Ivanhoe Library, which was my local while in primary school. I remember high ceilings, cosy corners, and happy days when a visit was on the agenda.
What book have we not read that you'd like to do at TGBC?
A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini. I really enjoyed learning a little more about Afghan culture through the book, and the tale of the resilient female characters. The book really prompts further thinking about gender equality, the oppression of women, and patriarchy - relevant not just in the Afghan culture.
What's your favourite drink?
Coffee. I’m big into single origin and batch/filter brews. Followed closely by a good negroni.
What is something people wouldn't know about you if they judged you by your cover?
That I’m a lower limb amputee and a Type 1 diabetic. Two non-visible disabilities/chronic conditions that generally don’t come up unless I make a point of sharing, which, as I’ve become more comfortable in my own skin, I do share now - more than ever before. I’ve also realised that breaking misconceptions by talking about stuff, and showing vulnerability is a great way to connect with folks.
