The Listening - Talking Circle

Wisdom of the Natives 

There is something sacred, caring and safe about a native "Talking Circle". There is no feeling of stiffness or formality but instead a comfortable awareness of peace and listening. Real listening. As the talking stick is passed from person to person, each feeling safe to speak their hearts and minds, only the person holding the talking stick (traditionally made of mullein) may speak or be silent (often a great blessing) and has the attention of the circle. I think that one of the results is those listening are "listening" and not forming answers in their minds.  Listening without forming response eliminates judgment There is no feeling of judgment in this circle but one of understanding--really being heard and most importantly of really hearing yourself.  Even more awesome is the awareness of hearing the Creator speaking to and through your and another’s heart.

 The process is simple and as natural as the native way:  As you gather Each person is saged, this is the native way of clearing (being blessed), and open to the creator’s presence, presence of our Ancestors and all Creator’s creatures be they physical or spirit The circle is formed and prayers to Creator, the ancestors, the four directions and sacred mother earth for their blessings and presence to be there. There is an amazing peace and power that seems enter all. 

The person opening the circle starts. Speaking what comes, what is in your hearts.  Often you find no words in till the power of the talking stick arrives in your in your hand then the right words come to be listened to by the speaker of the words as much as by others. 

Listening/talking circles can be used anytime two or more need to understand, themselves or one another. In fact a friend who facilitates such a meeting has held it all alone and been in commune with the spirits, ancestors and creator with powerful results.     

These circles are often used in counseling and mediation. So often in the openness of finally being heard and listening that there is no apparent conflict anymore.

It is an excellent way for a group to "think tank" or develop ideas. Also an excellent efficient meeting format as many members of the Clan of the Hawk have found. 

One of the most meaningful for myself as facilitator is with families. I've sat in many meetings with parents and children involved and experienced the joy of seeing understanding and oneness between the generations. In fact we've had parents tell us the children often ask for the "talking stick" to be used at home and many families use this "family meeting method". So often as each speaks from their heart and creators knowing the wisdom from our children is old, wise and ageless. Most of all it's FUN!

 Most often, in less the circle is called for a family or group who want to end to a division or create a new connection, or as a counseling circle, the "Listening/Talking Circle" has no set purpose but evolves natural into the blossoming of each person’s spirit and connection to the creator. Whether you chose to speak or not, being in the magic of the talking circle is a wonderment.  Very much like the medicine wheel or sacred circle. 

In the coming weeks and months the Clan of the Hawk will be hosting a monthly or bi-monthly "Listening/Talking circle". We have several experienced members with mediation and counseling experience as well as many "listening/talking circles”. Please contact us as to the best times for all of you, we will be meeting at the chiefs house initially but we also travel.

 Families, groups or those wanting guidance may call Clan of the Hawk to arrange a closed circle.

 We hope to bring the joy of this experience to you all.

 As part of our newsletter we will have a column "The Listening circle." We ask each to consider contributing, and responding as you might within the circle. 

Thank you!

 Comment from a circle:

      “As I sat today pondering my problems I looked up to see a small being buffeted by the wind.  As I watched this bird and felt its flight seemingly against the wind I realized that never for a moment did that small bird doubt its path or that creator would provide a safe landing.  As that knowing filled my heart I heard creator’s voice whisper, Have Faith…”