Friends, My thanks to Owen, Larry and others who responded to my request for advise on conducting my first Open Space event--and I think the first to be held in Nova Scotia.
Within one hour, the 35 participants, which ranged from environmentalists to native leaders to government scientists, created 18 sessions for the day, and then engaged in passionate discussions that moved everyone a long way towards a developing State of the Environment Report for Nova Scotia. At the end of the day, participants had most of the proceedings, with the complete package going out shortly. One comment heard several times after the meeting was, "I learned so much today." Even after a long day, there was enthusiasm for the second day of the endeavour, which will take place next month. My thanks also to Brigitt, who gave me a last minute transmission of the spirit of caring, respect and trust that seems so important to Open Space. I hope to get "formal" training in the New Year. Joe Szostak [email protected]
