In one of the main clarifying stories I tell myself, I recognize that me and most people are sorting and seeking some layer of meaning and purpose. We want to know ourselves. Our surroundings. We want to know our neighbors. Our colleagues. We want to do good with all of that — not because we are forced, but because it is inherently desirable and fulfilling.
Well, here’s the thing.
When we get in the river, into deliberate processes of learning and connection together, the river gets in to us.
It’s as if (or maybe just is) the bigger river of life and of learning carries us away from our shores and out into the current of deeper waters and deeper understanding. When the river is in us, it is my experience that insights also flow so naturally. Ideas. Nuances. Projects to start or to define. Friendships. Intuitions. Things to stop.
Today I participated in another Center for Purposeful Leadership Zoom call. This time featuring Peter Block and a few of his colleagues.
In that river, I got river…
- “make a living out of common sense” — that’s Peter offering broad arc of his professional life
- “how long does it take to fall in love… 12 minutes” — that’s Maya Mehta, a community organizer describing the work of small group connection (strangers) over a meaningful question
- “learn to be radically human” — that’s Cheryl Persigehl reflecting on purpose in a group and in a community
- “it (the facilitation) doesn’t have to be dramatic” — that’s Peter again standing for simplicity (turn to your neighbor; share was is meaningful in what you are hearing)
What delight, to begin to recognize, and to practice more simply, and with more courageous consciousness, to be in learning together. What delight to learn of the gifts of the river that carry hearts, minds, bellies in kayaks of presence together.
Yup, all of that.
What a delight to fall in love once again, over and over. Bless you for showing up to give and get your love.
It’s a treat to be in such well-held and well-hearted places Craig. A bow.