Yesterday many of our teens were not present-- try outs, athletics, play practice... they do it all! We are so proud an pleased with their level of involvement!
We had a small group at the MKC yesterday-- only about 20 teens. This was the perfect time to try a more intimate form of Reflection. Everyone held hands, became quiet together. We talked about some rudimentary quantum physics, and the idea of shared energy.
Then, the teens were asked an intimate and poignant question-
Then, the teens were asked an intimate and poignant question-
"Who needs healing light in your life?"
While our group is usually willing to share amongst their peers-- this was a different experience. With less people, each teen got a chance to speak more. They felt comfortable and willing to give a name-- and then a reason they needed healing energy/light.
On a normal sharing of concerns and love we may hear answers like:
"My mom."
"My dad."
"My cousin."
Yesterday we were given a much more telling glance into the emotional weight these teens are carrying:
"My mom needs healing light... because she is having a hard time at her job(s)..."
"My cousin. He is in jail again... and he needs love."
Our teens were more willing to share intimate details about a need for healing in their lives and the lives of those they love. This is an important step towards implementing The Circle Process here at the Center.
The Circle Process is one wherein:
1. A talking piece is the primary mode of regulating the conversation, so that each person has an equal opportunity to speak.
2. Participants engage in an intentional conversation about values and a set of guidelines for how they want to be together.
3. The process opens and closes with some form of ceremony.
4. Building relationships precedes and is treated as equally important as tackling difficult issues.
2. Participants engage in an intentional conversation about values and a set of guidelines for how they want to be together.
3. The process opens and closes with some form of ceremony.
4. Building relationships precedes and is treated as equally important as tackling difficult issues.
The "Circle" is a safe space, where resolution can be found, voices can be heard-- and restorative justice can begin.
It is an important conflict-resolution model-- and a way to go beyond resolution to restoration.
More about Circles and the Circle Process:
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