Who are you? is the question I ask all my circle guests. In this episode, I hold the talking piece and answer that question myself.

What’s in this episode for you:

• An amazing way to introduce yourself that will have you laughing, and crying, and craving home-baked cookies - See prompts below and take this tool with you to all your gatherings to create connection
• A story that will show you that you can change your story at any time and change your life in the process
• Why Circle Dialogue is so powerful for healing divides
• The purpose of life (that’s right - if you’ve been waiting for the answer, it’s right here!)

Poem: Opening Ceremony by Tanya Markul, The She Book

To the North within you, may you express the wisdom of your true self. 

To the West within you, may you be reborn with every season. 

To the South within you, may you hear the counsel of your heart. 

To the East within you, may you be blessed with inner illumination. 

To all Above that is within you, may you be guided by angels and divinity. 

To all Below that is within you, may you discover the blessing of your shadow. 

To the Spirit within you, may you find your way home. 

This is one of my favourite poetry books. If you’re a human, you’ll relate to her direct prose.

A connection tool:

This amazing set of prompts will deepen your knowledge of yourself and others.

Take five minutes to jot down the first thoughts that come to your mind for the following prompts. Then put it all together starting with the sentence stem, “I am from….”. Take turns reading poems and soak up humanity.

• Place of birth/family ancestry
• The foods you grew up eating
• Something you were told as a child
• A childhood memory that brings you joy
• Spiritual practice (or lack thereof)
• Songs or music you listened to

Exercise idea comes from Motivating the Masses.

Pick up the talking piece: 

Head on over to www.humconsulting.ca/podcast to share your "I am from" poem or any other words from your heart.  What came up for you as you listened to this episode? I'd love to hear. 

Gratitude: 

Circle of Change is recorded on lək̓ʷəŋən territories.

Our opening and closing music was created by the talented E-Rol Beats. You can find his creations at www.erolbeats.com

My fabulous podcast coach, Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions, brought this podcast to life. www.organizedsound.ca