by Leigh Tremaine
The Circle has been used for thousands of years by tribal peoples. When we gather in a Circle we are equal with each other and are reminded by its symbolism of the unity to which we are aspiring. There is room for many opinions and voices, and we realise that different perceptions are both valid and helpful. We each hold part of the truth, and by honouring our individual diversity we approach more closely to the truth. In the Circle different perceptions do not have to compete with each other for dominance.
The Circle creates the resonance for group synergy, in which the whole becomes increasingly greater than the mere sum of its parts. It reaffirms our interconnectedness and reminds us to work together for the good of the whole. In so doing we are triggered into a learning process, in which we are challenged to move beyond the narrow self-interest of our ego and to realise that we are inseparable parts of the whole. The Circle is therefore a place of deep communication, reconciliation, and healing.
By attuning to the group energy of the Circle and asking for guidance from within, a new vision emerges which takes everyone's contribution into account. When everyone reaches agreement in this way, consensus is achieved. Consensus is quite different from conformity. Conformity occurs when people think, feel, and act in the same way, without honouring their individual diversity or personal autonomy. Consensus occurs when people maintain their individuality and autonomy and at the same time raise their awareness so that they think, feel, and act for the good of the whole.
The Talking-Piece
This is an object that is passed from hand to hand around the Circle. It grants the person holding it the right to express himself or herself without interruption, and is a visual reminder to others to restrain their impulse to interject and to focus their full attention on the person holding the talking-piece. This helps to empower and energise the person holding it, and ensures that all people have the opportunity to be heard and witnessed as equals. If the person holding the talking-piece wishes to pass, it is okay to can hand the piece on. After a complete round the talking-piece can, according to the group's wishes, be passed around a second time or placed in the centre for people to pick up, add something more, and put back.
Preparation
Invite people to the Circle, stating the intention of the gathering simply and clearly. To create a strong Circle we need to draw upon people who have different skills, views, backgrounds, and personality strengths. As a group you may wish to agree upon some basic guidelines for conduct within the Circle. These could be:
Setting up the Circle
Chairs or cushions can be placed in a circle. The centre of the Circle is for objects that symbolise the purpose of the meeting - these focus the energy of the group. Some people choose to place a candle in the very centre to remind people that they are in a sacred space.
Opening the Circle
The convenor of the Circle explains to the group the purpose behind the Circle, what is involved, and why the group is gathering. It is at this point that the talking-piece is introduced and any guidelines are restated. The Circle may then contract to remain open for a specific period of time or for however long it takes to accomplish its purpose.
If there is a candle in the centre this can now be lit and dedicated to the theme and intent of the Circle. It is good to start with a minute or two of silent focusing in which people hold hands, meditate, or just breathe together. This helps people to attune to the group energy and to open up to their inner guidance. The convenor then places the talking- piece in the centre and invites it to be picked up by anyone who feels inspired.
The Group Process
When the person holding the talking-piece speaks, the rest of the people in the Circle should give their full attention, from their heart, without interrupting or trying to plan a response - we need to trust that when we get the talking-piece we will be able to draw forth the words we want. Part of respecting others means that if we do not agree with their words, their gestures, or their situation, we need to recognise that they are not right or wrong, just different: we each hold a piece of the jigsaw puzzle.
Committing to the group process means being patient and staying with the process. It means sharing responsibility and being aware of what is needed in order for the group to evolve and accomplish its task. We need to trust that the resources to accomplish the Circle's purpose exist within the group and can be brought out. Shared responsibility means that we:
Each person is responsible for agreeing or not agreeing to participate in specific requests. We can support someone but not take direct part in what they request. It is also possible not to support a request if it is not considered to serve the group purpose.
When there is tension in the Circle or the group energy is stuck, it is often a good idea to call for moment of silence so that people can realign with their inner guidance and the purpose of the Circle. Sometimes it helps to call for movement, a song, or even time out. The convenor may intervene if guidelines or procedures are broken or if time is running out and this has not been dealt with by the person holding the talking-piece. If someone is intent on destroying the Circle, either the Circle can disband or the majority of members can work together to ask that person to leave.
Essentially the group process describes how we work to achieve group consciousness by integrating our own self-interest and personal identity with the interest and identity of the whole group. Sometimes, however, the Circle can reach a stage at which personal issues and perspectives begin reflecting world issues and perspectives. The energy becomes transpersonal, and people may begin speaking for humanity, other life forms, or the Planet. When the Circle becomes a microcosm of the world its resonance with the collective can become a holographic means for world healing. This idea recognises the insights of quantum physics: the interconnectedness of the whole universe, and the containment of the whole universe within each of its parts.
Closing the Circle
We need to know when to close the Circle. This is usually when the group energy has long passed its peak, or when an agreed-upon finishing time is being reached. At this point the talking-piece can be placed in the centre and the convenor can prepare the Circle for closure. The method of closure needs to reflect the intimacy that has been developed. We might, for instance, go round the circle with each person saying what they take with them from the Circle and what they leave behind for the Circle to hold. The Circle can also close with song, movement, with prayers or a silent meditation, or with the group holding hands. If there is a candle in the centre the group could blow it out together at the very end.
It is important to honour the cycles of the Circle and the individual group members who compose it. The Circle needs to be allowed to reshape, redirect its energy, or to be let go of if the cycle has completed. Circles need time to reconsider their contracts, air problems or tensions, and have members recommit or leave with the blessings of the group. It is important that we know when it is time for us to move on, and not to remain in the Circle out of dependency, addiction, or nostalgic attachment. There are other Circles waiting for us. We also need to use our knowledge and experience of Circle Work to help set up new Circles and thus aid the expansion of community awareness.
The Circle and Community
Circles can be called by anyone whenever people want to work together to achieve greater understanding and harmony amongst themselves. Working the Circle is an effective way for members of a decentralised community to govern themselves, and is a powerful means by which communities can achieve true self-awareness. In a network of communities many Circles can interconnect.