As we approach the one-year mark of the pandemic, I invite you to join us to reflect on hospitality - the giving and receiving of welcome. Together we'll explore how our practices strengthen our professional and personal leadership.
Coming out of the woods yesterday, I crossed paths with a woman and her dog. Though I didn’t know her, I said hi and she said hello in response. I continued along the snowy path and had made my way about 20 yards/meters before I heard her call to me. I turned towards her and she shouted, “Thank you for saying hello. It means so much to me these days. I try to say hi to everyone I meet on my walks, and you’re the first person who beat me to it in a long time.”
During this unprecedented time, many people are finding that by reflecting on and integrating what's happening to them, they can experience more resilience and wholeness. From this place, they can also be of more service to those around them.
For eight weeks, I'll be offering one-hour, weekly Centering Circles, virtual group gatherings that provide a space to pause and connect with yourself.
Are you looking to touch base with yourself and listen deeply to what is moving through you during this unprecedented time? Join me for a one-hour guided journaling exercise inspired by the work of the Presencing Institute's Theory U and the Center for Courage & Renewal. All you need is a quiet space, a pen and some paper. All sharing will be voluntary.
One theme that appeared again and again is deep listening. It seems to be a foundational practice for living and leading well. Here’s a round-up of some of the practices and insights this fall has offered.
When I listen to my heart tell me what is more important to me than avoiding an immediate threat, the courage to act can suddenly appear.
This past winter I spent a long weekend on retreat in stillness and good company. The theme of the retreat was hidden seeds, the way nature can look as if it's sleeping or even dead, when it is in fact gathering strength and getting ready to burst forth when the conditions are favorable.
I think sometimes we special needs parents are getting the wrong message. We're told that if we want to be effective, we should be the mama bear — fierce and protective. Or the victim, sad and pleading. The course leader's parable reminded me that I have other options, ones that actually might be more effective than anger or sadness.