“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” ~ Margaret Mead
Knowing that the planet needs Elders, Circles of Courageous Commons has made the commitment to create the space for growing Elders. Dr. Sally Z. Hare offers programs and a field guide. She tells us that Elder is not about age, but committing with intention to the lifelong journey to wholeness. Elder is the time of life when meaning emerges.
We, as homo-sapiens, have gathered around the fire, gathered with family, shared food around the table, have come together in sacred places of worship, and talked over challenges or threats in our community.
What is new, is that in our present world, we do not gather in Circles nearly
as often.
Circles of Courageous Commons hopes that through inspiring others to meet for the common good we will reignite conversations that bring us together and make us feel alive. Through a variety of resources such as poetry, literature, art, and music we hope that people will find their way to create daily practices that honor and guard the spirit – and help us all to go out in our communities whole.
Circles of Renewal and Wholeness are grounded in the principle that, without denying or abandoning the outer world, we must reclaim the reality and power of our inner lives. Our Circles intentionally create spaces in which each participant has the best chance to connect the inner life of mind and spirit with the outer life of work and service, to re-connect soul and role. Our work is grounded in Parker Palmer’s writing about wholeness and the movement model, Elaine Sullivan’s work on the importance of story, and Sally Z. Hare’s ElderGarten. Diverse participants include people from healthcare, ministry, business, government, education, human rights, philanthropy, and nonprofits, as well as students and retirees. The common connection is a desire to work and live more wholeheartedly.
Beginning with the individual, the Circle of Renewal and Wholeness approach has the potential to weave together soul and role, individual and community, and personal and social transformation.
There is something about gathering around a table, with food that brings out the generosity and goodness in each of us. It is our hope with “The Community Table” of Circles of Courageous Commons to set such a table of welcome. Where the “food” offered are the pieces of poetry, literature, and personal writings presented each day.
As we begin to shape Circles of Courageous Commons, we think it would be lovely to find a way to write daily as a community. Our plan is simple. Each day we will post a poem, reading or other piece for our reflection. We will invite you to consider the line we post as your invitation to write. (It is only an invitation.)
We welcome you to join the discussion by commenting or liking any entries. In addition, you are invited to gather virtually. Check our events page for a once-a-month writing potluck, a time for sharing and reflection.
