After listening - reading posts on the "ACR-GNY" (Association of Conflict Resolution - Greater New York) list serv, post the Sandy Hook - Newtown, Connecticut, tragedy, I suggested on the list serve that we come together face to face via an Open Space to discuss our responses, thoughts, beliefs, opinions and to listen with each other. The call was heard and last weekend we spent a half-day with opening and closing circles, a marketplace and 3 rounds of dialogue.
Described by one attendee "as a great day filled with open, honest conversation and empathy towards others' views," another said, "thank you again for initiating this meeting. It was and continues to be very useful and important to me. I learned a lot, met fantastic people, and no longer am struggling with feeling alienated." Another attendee said, "there seemed to be a strong feeling of camaraderie. I can say that I came away from it with a more renewed energy in my capacity to help effectuate change." Discovery and enthusiasm carried forward as members of the group decided to keep the conversation going. In March, I will facilitate another 1/2 day Open Space in Queens, NY, focused on stopping borough wide violence. Hopefully, these types of conversations can be replicated in all directions. Scott Gassman -- Scott Gassman IdeaJuice (917) 951 - 0258 [email protected] www.ideajuices.com America Speaks on Scott: http://americaspeaks.org/facilitator-spotlight/spotlight-on-scott-gassman/
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