G’day All
Here’s something for you to ponder over during the Festive Season. <smile> *Can we open space without the format of Open Space Technology? * Here’s where my question arises: When living in Hong Kong for six happy years until 2011 I invented a novel form of socialising which I called *Conversare* from the Latin *con versare – to turn or to dance together. *See The purpose of *Conversare * <http://conversare.net/?page_id=1957>and here <http://conversare.net/?page_id=2002> for what it is and what it is not. This is now being conducted in what may well be regarded as a 'right place’ - the Adelaide Central Market <http://us6.forward-to-friend.com/forward/show?u=d2a5886c33ebf0bb6486eeb16&id=8b30b0cef0> and here <http://www.southaustralia.com/en/things-to-do/ideas-and-suggestions/markets> . With regard to my question I recently took the opportunity to consult with a group of Spaceniks (Raffi’s term!) on their perspectives, expressing it in this way: *Is Conversare a variety of Open Space?* Which, in turn, arose in relation to two issues which I had recently noticed on the OSList: . Open Space wherever, however, whenever, with whomever as often as you can. *Lively thread of exchanges initiated by Harrison* . “all OS events I have seen are highly structured.” *Michael M Pannwitz (mmp)* The language becomes tricky here as to whether ‘opening space’ and OS events are to do with the principles and practice of *Open Space Technology* operating through of the format of sitting in a circle and co-creating a market place of nominated topics related to the resolution of complex issues. Or whether opening space can be done independently of this format. Of the thoughtful responses received there are two which answer the question most ‘wonder fully’ and usefully for me and maybe for you too. >From Anne Stadler: “Here's my current POV [point of view]: Opening a Marketplace is ONE form for OST. In my view all sorts of forms exist. On all occasions, the "space" i open FIRST is the heart space within, via emptying my mind & getting meditatively in touch with the intention I'm called to take responsibility for. Then the form of the open space will become evident as the opportunity clarifies. A hallmark of opening space with others for me is I must explicitly invite them to "take responsibility for what you love" (Law of Two Feet) or "follow what has heart and meaning." So conversare as you describe it, Alan, would be OS for me, if you'd invite that. In using this approach to conversare, I would encourage people to follow their hearts or intuition & find another person to talk with; asking that person what he/she cares about, & discovering the resonance/connection that exists between you.” >From michael herman: “i would say, absolutely, yes, alan. this IS open and opening space -- fully within the wherever, whomever spirit. on structure, there is the container that is offered, and then all of the decisions that are made within it. you make the offer and leave the details to the paired participants to work out for themselves. i think there is a big question or theme, even if it's not explicitly stated. there is a big thing to work out together, and it's going to take everyone. maybe the articulation of this would be something along the lines of the bit you shared at vosonos, about "loving the one in front of you." there is nothing in the definition of open space that says we have to limit ourselves to questions on which we can make "measurable" progress in 90 mins or 2.5 days. quite the opposite, i think! thanks for all of this.” I have also received supportive comments from locals here about their experience of being in *Conversare* events and their ideas on potential applications. Among these: “Congratulations Alan For getting conversare up and running in such an exceptional place. And support this idea – not before its time. An idea for our time.” *Tim Walsh* “What uniquely exciting and practical ideas. And what a way it could be for our wonderful new refugees to learn real English, and perhaps for all of us to at least feel other languages.” *Andrew Booth* Here are two closing thoughts to stimulate your 'pondering' ... 1. Could introducing the *Conversare* process be a way to open space for all attendees to be full participants when we meet and greet in the evening prior to the commencement of WOSonOS? Such an approach has not been used in the five of these which I have attended, beginning in Monterey in 1998. Sitting in a circle in this context did not enable everyone to be an active participant, in my experience. Seeds have been sown and are likely sprouting in Manila … 2. Could hosting *Conversare* kind of gatherings be a new career option for lively spirits who are so inclined? If this idea catches your attention do have a good look around my blog as this has a wealth of background on its principles, practices and inspirations. See also Some underpinnings of Conversare events <http://conversare.net/?page_id=1920> and Reclaiming Conversation: the power of talk in a digital age <http://conversare.net/?page_id=2022> With love and good wishes to you all for a joyous, peaceful and merry Festive Season. And warmest salaams from Adelaide where today's temperature is 44C - 111F! Looking forward. Go well Alan *Alan Stewart, PhD Social Artist Senior Fulbright Scholar Facilitator of conversations that matter and participatory fun Based in Adelaide and operating throughout Austral-Asia Em: **[email protected]* <[email protected]>* and **[email protected]* <[email protected]> *Web: **www.multimindsolutions.com* <http://www.multimindsolutions.com> * Blog: * *Conversare **Mob: +61**413848680* <http://conversare.net>*Member **National Trouble Makers Union* <http://www.ntmu.com.au> *New book: **Time to converse - at the heart of human warmth* <http://www.multimindsolutions.com/?page_id=243> <http://www.multimindsolutions.com/?page_id=243> <http://www.multimindsolutions.com/?page_id=243> *"If there's dancing count me in"*
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