Listening Circle

Last edit January 1, 2024

questions / additions: mairead.case@gmail.com

thank you Julie Dolin

Norms:

• Speak from the heart.
• Listen from the heart.
• Speak spontaneously——trust you will say what you need to say, even if it’s not what you planned.
• Speak leanly——about 2 minutes, but I’m not likely to stop you.

Guardrails:

• Imagine a circle where (1) we connect with sincerity, (2) everything is important (this includes: snacks, bathroom breaks, etc.), and (3) just for now, as best we can, we do not pay attention to anything outside the circle. This is an active, fluid process, and imagining it is the first step.
• Each person shares without interruption for up to 2 minutes, about whatever is on their mind or in response to the Question/Prompt.
• I keep time, and signal at 1 minute 30 seconds. This is for grounding and equity, nothing else. I will rarely cut you off.
• Let us know when you’re done speaking with a gesture (thumbs up, hand over heart, etc.).
• Let us know that you have heard each person is finished with a gesture (thumbs up, hand over heart, etc.).
• [for zooms] Please mute yourself except when speaking and be present as best you can. You’re encouraged to have your screen on, but also to have it off if you want or need. Emojis, sounds, and the chat are great ways to show up too.
• When do you share? You might know when because you feel it. If two people start at the same time, we’ll figure it out. You can also wait, as I will make sure everyone has a specific invitation and opportunity to go. If today isn’t a day for you to speak, you’re still a part of the circle. 🤍
• Use whatever language and tone you are comfortable using, as long as it doesn’t keep anyone else from using theirs. A truly safe space is something that grows in community over time. I promise to be present, active, and open.
• Once everyone has shared and / or listened, we have time to connect——what came up in response to what someone else shared? Connections aren’t open conversation, though of course that might happen anyway.
• Because this process is focused on accessibility, equity, and community in real time, it will fluxuate. Please reach out to Mairead if you want or need support of any kind. If she can’t help you, she will connect you.

A good first question: rose, bud, thorn OR simply: how did you arrive today? What support can you offer, and what support do you want or need? Ask the question, and hold the space. There might be a long pause at the beginning. That’s okay <3