Meaningful conversations
Lately I have been spending time slowing down my life, thinking and observing what absolutely delights my heart, knowing that in these activities I am in touch with my essential self. As I dedicate more time to these activities, I flourish, flourish and live with joy. I recently fell in love with the word “exquisite” and here’s how I played with it: “My life is exquisite. Intricately and beautifully designed with such beauty and delicacy that it arouses intense delight.” And I wish that for each of YOU!
One of the activities that I value and treasure is “real” conversations. I really enjoy listening deeply to the heart of another. To share a conversation in which everyone has the opportunity to speak and feel really heard without being judged. I recently read a book by Margaret Wheatley “Turning to Each Other: Simple Conversations to Restore Hope for the Future” that really moved me. In it he states: “We have never wanted to be alone. But today we are alone. We are more fragmented and isolated from each other than ever… we are moving at a frantic speed, spiraling toward greater isolation. We seek comfort in everything but one another.” in the other. We have forgotten the source of true joy and well-being.”
The intent of your book and the intent of this article is to encourage and support you in starting conversations about what is important to you. I will share with you some talking points that Margaret offers and then an invitation to join me in meaningful conversations. Go ahead and start a conversation with someone about any of these:
1. What do I believe about others?
2. When have I experienced good listening?
3. Am I willing to make up time to think?
4. What is my unique contribution to the whole?
5. When do I experience the sacred?
Another author who gives us great ideas for meaningful conversations is Parker Palmer. In his book, “A Hidden Wholeness”, he states that “the soul wants the truth, not the platitudes”. That is such a powerful statement to me. Describe a process called circles of trust. In these circles we trust the soul and its ability to speak the truth, we trust each other to have the intention to create a space that is safe enough to receive the soul, and we trust that having a “no agenda change” will allow the soul to have transformative results.
Be curious about each other, slow down and talk together, over time, in a place you love. When you feel comfortable, start inviting new people to your conversation. You can meet physically or by phone. I have participated in groups over the phone where wonderfully meaningful conversations have taken place with people from all over the planet!
To your meaningful conversations!