Hello, good Circlefolk!
This past month, I've been deeply reflecting on the various forms of Community I belong to—their purposes and my roles within them. I must admit, I haven’t always valued being part of a Community, or even needing one. Growing up, hyper-independence became my shield, a survival mechanism born from a challenging childhood. I figured that if I met all my own needs, I could avoid the pain of being let down by others when I needed them most.
Because of this, the Communities I participated in were limited in scope, functioning mostly one way—or more accurately, I only allowed them to function one way. I gave, and they received. There was no true reciprocity. For a long time, I thought this was just how things worked until my mid 20’s when a Zen monk offered me a much-needed lesson. He told me, “You know, when you don't allow yourself to receive from others, you're denying them the gift of being able to give. You can help people feel good by gratefully receiving what they have to offer you.”
It was a profound realization, one that struck me to my core. Slowly, I began to soften and open to the vulnerability of receiving. Over time, I’ve come to understand that none of us, not even the most self-sufficient among us, can navigate life’s challenges alone. This might seem obvious to some, but for me, it’s been an ongoing practice of growth.
In reflecting on my Communities this month, I’ve noticed the beautiful balance they bring. Some Communities serve the purpose of helping others, while others nourish *me*, enabling me to show up fully for those I serve. When I step back and look at it all, I see a network of interconnected circles—overlapping, weaving, and supporting one another. It’s made me curious: What do you see in the Communities you belong to?
This Friday (6-9pm) marks our final drum & journey circle for 2024, and I’m looking forward to experiencing that sacred space with you. As many of you know, journey work has always been deeply rooted in Community. It wasn’t just a tool for personal healing or insight; it was vital for collective survival. Communities relied on journeyers to bring back guidance in times of uncertainty.
So, I ask you:
- Do you think your Communities could benefit from your journeying?
- What would it look like to share your gifts with those around you?
- Could you trust your visions and messages enough to offer them?
- If you aren’t already doing this, what’s holding you back?
These are not rhetorical questions—I would truly love to hear your thoughts. If you feel called, please share your reflections with me.
I live my life in widening circles
That reach out across the world.
— Rainer Maria Rilke
As we continue exploring the theme of Community, I want to highlight a few upcoming events hosted by our fellow Circlefolk:
- Emma Koeppel of Hearts Weaving Hope is leading a donation-based Community Song Circle at Tricklebee Café this Saturday at 10 a.m.
- Anna Cwalina and Ali Carlucci of Seasons Women’s Circle are hosting a *Winter Solstice Ceremony* on the shore of Lake Michigan at Bay View Park on Saturday, December 21st, at 3 p.m. Friends and family are warmly invited.
Finally, our Circle will gather again on January 24th, 2025. Until then, please take care of yourselves and your Communities.
With you always,
Holly
LOCATION: A Space for Change Movement Studio & Wellness Center at 3073 S. Chase Avenue (corner of Chase and Oklahoma inside the Chase Commerce Center), Building 28, first floor. Enter the Chase Commerce Center via Oklahoma Avenue (right across the street from the UW Credit Union building), and then look for the drum circle signs to direct you to the building.
2025 Circle Dates:
January 24
February 28
March 28
April 25
May 16
June 27
July 25
August 22
September 26
October 24
November 21