Building Stone #3
Interpersonal Connecting
Who we truly are can only be known in relationship. The wave would not exist if there were not the depth and breadth of the ocean to lift it. We nurture tender, authentic, catalytic friendships as we build trust, acceptance, awareness, and intimacy as well as shared perspectives, values, and intentions, remembering the value of humor.
Our guiding principles for harmony and growth in relationship include:
⚘ seeing the goodness, sincerity, and divinity in each other
⚘ fostering Divine friendships and demonstrating caring
⚘ suspending judgments, examining assumptions, honoring differences, and accepting each of us as we are
⚘ listening deeply with the whole body and with energetic awareness
⚘ being fully present and authentic with others, as well as being authentic and true to oneself, practicing authentic relating
⚘ creating safety and intimacy by seeing and feeling others, and allowing oneself to be seen and felt by others
⚘ being willing to show the deepest parts of oneself vulnerably, honestly, and transparently
⚘ fostering an environment of genuine collaboration where all feel included and empowered to have a voice and express individual and collective potential
⚘ not expecting perfection, for we are all learning and growing
⚘ sharing ideas, hopes, aspirations as well as resources and knowledge
⚘ communicating with integrity, telling one’s truth with compassion for all
⚘ offering feedback when invited, being willing to feel some discomfort as part of the process of growing and learning together
⚘ maintaining resonance, establishing rapport, and re-connecting with anyone with whom one feels out of harmony as soon as appropriate
⚘ taking problems, complaints, or upsets to the person(s) where resolution is possible, rather than to someone who can’t resolve the issue
⚘ celebrating the sacredness of life through sacred ritual, conversation, and music
⚘ sharing community projects/workdays like gardening and canning
⚘ joining in regular gatherings, meditations, kirtans, dancing, and weekly heart circles
⚘ aspiring to do all of the above with an attitude of lightheartedness