For ages, probably since the beginning of humankind, people have come together to share their stories and witness each other’s experiences. Listening deeply and being present for each other is a basic and archaic, yet the most profound and powerful form of community support.
When we are going through challenging times of pain and grief, the world around us often encourages us to distance ourselves from our feelings. It advises us to focus on positive thinking, action and pleasure, and to strive for well-being. We might be confronted with expectations of us to “pull ourselves together” and “move on.”
In a culture focussed on narratives of growth and success, there often is not enough time and space to approach the darker parts of the human condition—the pain, despair and sadness that so many people carry within themselves, often for many years. There is a deep need to allow these unattended parts to be felt and expressed.
When we come together in a circle to see and honor each other’s pain, we create a space of authenticity and acceptance. Community has healing power and is needed to transform grief. When our individual stories are witnessed and shared by a compassionate community, a special kind of magic can emerge. Together, we can touch a sense of unity and a universal quality connecting the most diverse human experiences.
In Community Circles, we open and hold space to acknowledge the joy and sorrow we carry individually and collectively. We offer each other non-judgmental witnessing, rather than advice or solutions. We connect with each other to respect, honor and witness each other’s stories and learn from each other’s experiences. We meet as a community to give each other our most precious gifts: Presence and attention. Acceptance and compassion.