Parker J. Palmer, is a world-renowned writer, speaker and activist who focuses on issues in education, community, leadership, spirituality and social change. He has reached millions worldwide through his nine books, including Let Your Life Speak, The Courage to Teach, A Hidden Wholeness, and Healing the Heart of Democracy. Above is an excerpt from his book titled A Hidden Wholeness: The Journey Toward an Undivided Life.
SEED QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION: What do you understand by the term "circle of trust"? Can you share a personal experience of being in a circle of trust? What helps your shy soul "put in an appearance?"
Learn how to do this at http://www.focusingresources.com.
I love this concept of the Circle of trust. For me, it is firstly the desire to seek ad live in solitude for some part of daily living to first center oneself and keep that soul voice alive, regardless of joy or pain. This inner center should then hopefully be able to expand into a greater, inclusive, non-judgmental circle of trust, love, understandind and support.. Herein lies the foundations of real societies and communities.
Full TRUST is very difficult to come by these days. People talk, chat, tweet, repeat, text . . . what they know. The more one "knows" (and can share) the more interesting one becomes. People talk for talking's sake. Story telling, expanding truth and lies has become the norm! It's no wonder my small mind cannot find "truth" (trust) within the muddle of "my world".
This is why (when I married my husband), the circle formed in our union was more of trust than of love. (Out of trust comes love . . . Usually, not the other way around!)
My circle of trust is the awareness that is drawn to wholeness of life doing its dance. It's the urge to break through the fog of separateness while simultaneously honoring our unique soul prints. Being in the presence of trees with sunlight streaming through the canopy by myself or with others , allows my shy soul to make its appearance.
Circle of Trust is harmony of mind, body & soul. All three must have 100% trust in each other. When Thought, Intuition and Action are in the same wave length we are in the circle of trust. So also like minded souls can form a circle of trust.
...and the soul is there - but what happens when it is opressed by stronger forces in you, destructive and not able to listen to your positiv inner voice? Or in other words, why are there so many sucides - mainly men betwenn 19 - 25 and between 40 - 45 years?
Circle of trust is a safe environment where one can share from their heart and soul and feel accepted and valued. I am fortunate to have several of these circles in my life & have relied on them in my own times of darkness. My soul is generally speaking a bit more open, yet when the darkness comes, the soul retreats and I am even more grateful for those who quietly enter space with me, sit listen and sometimes don't even say anything, simply offer their presence. Hugs to everyone, may we all be in quiet presence with each other.