Dear all, I've appreciated our recent conversation. This notion of invisibility is sometimes perplexing to me... For example, we just facilitated our second OST meeting for two recently amalgamated mental health agency branches of a national organization.
In meeting one, the amalgamation was imminent, the tension was palpable, and the theme was 'issues and opportunities around amalgamation'. We did receive a couple of 'why did we need the facilitator?' comments. This past week we facilitated a second meeting for them on 'developing the vision of _____'. The difference was remarkable! We had one attempted space invader (a mid-level manager who was previously an Executive Director of one of the branches!) which I handled swiftly and succinctly. The meeting was very productive, the mood much improved, and their ability and willingness to self-organize much smoother (less 'what do I do now?' questions). Again, we received three - 'wanted more from facilitator/we could have done it ourselves' comments. One participant knew intuitively that my work was to hold the space and commented to that effect. OST definitely works under a variety of conditions!! During the meeting I felt centred and present. Afterwards, these comments have had a mildly haunting effect upon me. I guess my question is: Is there ever a time when 'facilitator not needed' means more than the appropriate 'fully present and fully invisible'? BTW, in our summary to the org we suggested training staff so that they can conduct their own OST meetings in the future. My favourite meditation has to do with arranging the circles of chairs - in the main and breakout rooms. Lift, place, adjust, bless the participant... Lift, place, adjust, bless the participant... (The maintenance staff love us for it - even if we only help a bit....). Hope all of our American friends had a meaningful and heart-filled Thanksgiving! best wishes, glory If it isn't a happy ending, our story isn't over yet.' ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Glory Ressler, B.A., Dip. GIT Lynne Bubic, B.A., L.L.B. Avalon Consulting & Associates Phone: (905) 937-2177 www.edgeofavalon.com "...the edge where 21st century scientific insight and ancient storytelling wisdom meet in the service of transformation and growth"
