Hi everyone,
As we continue on our shared journey of investigating complexity, living systems, and our role as adaptive leaders , we also must journey into a new realm of understanding what we share together -- our connection to a collective wisdom that is available to each of us as we participate in our "swamp" groups. Each "swamp" group is a collective experience; each "swamp" group provides you with the opportunity to work collectively and learn what it means to harness new thought and creative solutions.
For Monday (2/21), I invite you to read chapters 7 & 8 in the Power of Collective Wisdom text. Select one passage per chapter to write out. Here are the specific directions:
1. Select one passage or key sentences per chapter.
2. Copy it exactly into the blog making sure to cite the page.
3. Write about what you believe the author is saying in the passage (what does the author mean?).
4. Next, write about why this particular passage is important to you as you begin to work collectively as a "swamp" group.
5. Finally, I invite you to not post and run, but to come back to visit the "shared journey" site -- read your peers' comments and reflections and comment, if you wish, on what is unfolding.
We've got a world to change together -- by learning to work collectively we have greater abilities and tools needed for this good work.
I look forward to reading your posts!
Jane
Posted for Kenny H.
ReplyDeleteHow does Brisken's final chapters relate to our swamp group project?
That's a very interesting question -- I had to ask, does it relate at all? The basic premise is around the idea of hearing everyone's side and finding the solution in our listening to one another, creating safe places for true expression and feeling, and thereby coming up with mutual soloutions. Somehow, I don't think we're going to be able to get sex traffickers to enter into this dialogue, to explain the necessity of thier actions, nor are we likely to come to a compromise on how to best enslave women and children.
On the other hand, I am looking forward to hearing what potential solutions will come out of such a process in our group, especially with use of the "mindful listening" techniques and finding our "collective resonance".
Chapter 7: “Neither solely about a moment of profound insight nor isolated to one person or group, collective wisdom is a deepening of collective understanding; it is the way we can come together to address our social world and the need for its repair” (170).
ReplyDeleteHere the authors are saying that by coming together as a group, we can begin to understand and change the ways we problem solve. The way we view problems are not individualistic but are the responsibilities of the group. I think this is important to our swamp issue group because we are learning and teaching each other how to think together to raise awareness of our social problem, sex trafficking.
Chapter 8: “We honor the wisdom emerging among us when we acknowledge each other’s contribution, rather than confirming each other’s relative position in the group” (188).
When speaking of mindfulness, I found this quote helpful to me, because for some reason when I hear the word “facilitator”, I automatically think “oh, that person’s in charge”. Remembering that we are all an equal part of our group and our contributions matter more than our defined roles is a big part of working together as a collective on our swamp issue.
Passage Chap 7: “As collective wisdom emerges, group members begin to comprehend how much of the conflict is structural, built into the ways things have previously been designed” (160).
ReplyDeleteI believe what the author is saying here as we shift from a single minded way and look at it as a whole; we expand our ways of seeing things and for the whole thing to work, the structure needs to be changed. A situation will not change unless we make the change.
I believe this passage is important with our swamp issues because as you see we are all designed to think singly, but by doing that it causes obstacles and conflict between group members. In the passage this previous structure wasn’t working. If I open my mind and think collectively as a group I believe I will accomplish great collective wisdom.
Passage Chap 8: “Deep listening is a practice of emptying out the noise and rattle that accompanies much of our own thoughts. It is finding a quiet space in our own mind that allows us to “sense” into the other” (180).
I believe what the author is saying and means here is that we need to get to that empty place in our thoughts to find deep listening in conversation. We sense what others are saying, but we still have the noise and rattle in our head that overwhelms listening. It takes practice, but one can accomplish this quiet space.
I believe this passage is important for me during our swamp groups, because I need to really listen to other ideas. Open my mind collectively and truly listen. We may hear what one is saying, but do we really listen. I believe this will help our group if we follow the passage. I need to practice emptying out the garbage in my head and find that quiet space and listen to my teammates.
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ReplyDeleteChapter 7: “Tensions need to find a way to the surface and to be worked out in ways that cultivate respect and regard for each other and the group’s task. We each need to see others as purposeful and contributing positively; when we don’t, competition and conflict become wounding rather than a creative tension” (157). I think what the authors are trying to say here is that we need to embrace our differences as a group and work together using our disagreements as a way of collaborating. To help us find some common ground instead of allowing them to weaken us as a group. This could prove very useful because we have very different kinds of people in our group and that is what makes it interesting. We also come up with different ideas but we usually find some common ground. I think this concept would be useful for our swamp groups because as we go deeper into our swamp issue, most of us will probably have different ideas and different takes on the matter. At that moment I think we will want to be using this concept again to find a solution that will satisfy the collective.
ReplyDeleteChapter 8: “No improvements can be sustained if a group is dependent on everything going right from the beginning or on any one individual. A groups ability to develop resilience allows it to feel safe enough to see what is not going right and to improvise as needed” (185). I think the authors are trying to tell us that without problems a group cannot grow to learn how to solve them. Knowing how to deal with complications as a group is an important skill that we all need to have, especially when dealing with our swamp groups. The authors are also trying to tell us that as a group we should not depend on only one individual to pick up the slack. We are all equally important and we all have a duty to our group members. This, I think is very important to our swamp groups because sometimes in groups we tend to think that we are less important than the other contributors where in reality were all just as important. Without all of us working together, our group would not be able to function as well as it should.
Chapter 7
ReplyDeleteIn The Power of Collective Wisdom, the authors write, “Specifically, groups need the experience of devising, shaping, and discovering new possibilities among themselves. This is why simply imposing solutions from outside typically does not work. There is no creativity in passivity” (157).
For a group to take ownership of a solution and to totally embrace the solution the group must come up with the solution themselves. This is important in more than just group activities. In a leadership role or a group situation it is important to have people feel a part of a project or outcome. To feel part of an outcome it is necessary to have a say in things. If a group creates a project they will have much more interest in the success of the project because it is their creation, they feel ownership.
This is an important concept for our group. If we want everyone to fully participate each person must be heard. Each person must feel like they are a part of the discussion and solutions that the group creates. We also have to make sure that we do not rely on someone else to come up with our solutions. We cannot be passive, we must work hard to create some new ideas and new possibilities. Our job as a group is not to take others ideas and make them ours, our group needs to come up with our own creative solutions.
Chapter 8
In The Power of Collective Wisdom, the authors write, “Creating safe spaces for inquiry makes us mindful that it is important for individuals to feel both unique and part of the group. When this basic need is frustrated, we stop being interested in what the group or collective can do” (176).
Members of a group must feel they contribute something to the group because of their individuality and also must feel a connection to the group as a whole. Members should also feel that the group is better because of their personal contribution. People who do not feel both of these feelings will not be able or willing to fully participate. It is important that groups create an environment where members of the group feel safe or comfortable. Group members must feel they can be honest and share their feelings without being judged. It is also important that members of a group feel they are being understood by the others in the group even if there is disagreement.
We need to create an atmosphere in our group where everyone feels they can share, be honest, and understood. We need to create an environment where we can have disagreements without being disagreeable. Each group member should feel that they can be themselves, be accepted for being themselves and that they contribute to the group because of who they are. These are very valuable skills and I am looking forward to seeing how well we are able to handle different situations that may come up during our discussions. I believe this assignment is as much more about learning to work well together than it is about solving our swamp issue.
Chapter 7: "Healing is a process that aims to make us whole, to unify the discordant chords of life into a larger harmony. It is a sacred process. At its simplest, it is an attempt to do more of those things that bring joy and fewer things that cause pain..." (151).
ReplyDeleteI believe the author is saying that healing is a natural occurrence that not only keeps us whole as individuals, but is also how the universe remains whole on the largest scale. When a living being experiences harm, healing is the automatic system that aims to create homeostasis. The author may believe that universal homeostasis occurs as well, and because we are all one with and of the universe, it is only natural to attempt to heal other beings that have been harmed. We do so with physical comforts, mental release and processing of grief or trauma, and even by prayer when spiritual healing is needed.
This passage pertains to my swamp group because we are aiming to bring awareness to sex trafficking victims, a group of often persecuted and underserved women that are in need of healing on many levels.
Chapter 8: "Mindfulness is a gentle practice for deepening reflection because it continually returns us to the present moment. .. We begin to become aware that 'thoughts are just thoughts,' not edicts that should rule our behavior" (174).
I think the author is conveying the value of living in the present, which is also known as "being mindful". This means to take consideration of our words, thoughts, and actions; to reap what we sow. I like the idea that "thoughts are just thoughts", because often our thoughts are not even our own, but planted there by what someone else has said or done. The chaotic environment of the human mind can be quelled by practicing mindfulness: we begin to see that we are not our mind, so therefore we don't need to always listen to our own thoughts. By this I don't mean to dismiss intuition, just negative self-talk, ignorance, and opinions that may not be our own.
This passage pertains to my swamp group because when working with a group of people, mindfulness can be very valuable. It allows those listening to really absorb what is being said with deeper meaning, and encourages those speaking to consider their words so that they may be as true as they can be to what they are trying to say.
Chapter 7: “Never doubt,” Margaret Mead once stated, “that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world” (152).
ReplyDeleteI believe the author is emphasizing that we can make a difference in the world. I think a lot of times we may feel helpless and that our actions will have little or no influence over the world. We see that even a small group of people can cause a difference. An example would be Wangari Maathai in Taking Root and how they were able to make a change in their community.
I chose this passage was because it reminded me of a conversation our group had regarding our swamp issue. We spoke about how even our small group can create awareness of mental illness. Even if we only get our message out to our fellow students, this can still make a change. Perhaps each of us talk to someone like a family member, it can spiral and get the message out to large audience, which can create awareness and change.
Chapter 8: “A physician colleague notes that patients don’t care how much you know; they want to know how much you care” (176).
I believe the author is showing how each of us has a need to feel cared for and understood. This need to be cared for is much stronger then being in a situation in which someone is knowledgeable but yet very cold. Nobody wants to feel like a number, we want to feel empathy and understanding.
This quote is important because it sums up our motivation for our swamp issue of mental illness. Many with mental illness feel ostracized by society and may not be receiving the proper care. Some with mental issues feel alone and that no one really cares or understands them.
Chapter 7
ReplyDeleteBriskin writes, “Tensions need to find a way to the surface and to be worked out in ways that cultivate respect and regard for each other and the group’s task. We need to see others as purposeful and contributing positively; when we don’t, competition and conflict become wounding rather than a creative tension” (157). When working in groups there are always going to be people who have differing opinions. These differing opinions can be used for the good or bad. Everyone has a legitimate reason for believing what they do and everyone’s opinions should be respected even if you do not agree. By having multiple points of view a group is more likely to come up with a creative solution to an issue then if everyone agreed. But people need to be careful with how they present their opinions and listen and respond to other people’s opinions. If done in a disrespectful manner it can sabotage the progress of the group. I think treating everyone with respect is a very important thing to do while working in a group. It tells everyone that they are important too and have something to contribute even if I don’t completely agree with them. I think to that if an issue does come up it needs to be discussed so that we can move on from it.
Chapter 8
Briskin writes, “Questions stimulate the imagination, which is our most profound defense against habitual thinking and normative pressures” (187). Questions are very important to ask. They can get us onto the balcony to help us observe what is really going on. They also get us thinking outside of the box and looking at the issue as a whole, not one little piece of it. When we begin looking outside the box we are going to find the best solution. I think that asking questions for our swamp issue of the school lunch program is key in being able to devise a solution. We need to understand the whole picture first and we can only do this by asking questions about how, why, when, where, who, etc. Once we have a full understanding of the issue we can then move on to using our imagination to come up with a solution.
Since we are newly working in our swamp groups, in my opinion we have yet to see any tensions or disputes. I feel that getting through conflict is a huge part of making a group environment work. In chapter seven of the Power of Collective Wisdom, Briskin explains “When groups are involved with the emergent aspects of collective discovery, it is always the first time. Emergence is about new forms, new perspectives, and new ways to think about or see a situation” (170). At this point in our discovery process of our swamp issue this is a very valid point he makes. We as a group need to work together, look at things from a completely new perspective to hopefully come up with a new idea that no one else has been able to thus far. I believe that if we were further into the process there would be many other ideas our swamp group could take from this book, but currently this is the most prevalent to us. Although to get to the point where everyone feels safe enough to share their ideas, we must ensure everyone feels secure and feel that their ideas are valid and won’t be judged. It may be a good idea to do a quick trust exercise within our group to get the brainstorming flowing. Maybe a rafting excursion!!!
ReplyDeleteIn chapter eight, Briskin explains “What is already working? This I a question that inspires hope and possibilities in groups, and of all the questions, it is the one that can most often be voiced out loud. The question is the basis for appreciative forms of inquiry where we seek what is already functional and positive” (189). He is expressing this passage as more of, what is already working within the group, but it actually helped me more to think of our swamp issue. What is already working within the issue of the swamp? Rather than thinking we need to revamp everything when it comes to our swamp issue, maybe we need to look at what is already working and what really needs to be changed. This could help us be more efficient with our time. I feel like we might be taking on this issue thinking we need to recreate the wheel when we don’t need to recreate the wheel. This question, “What is already working?” is definitely something I plan to discuss with our swamp issue group.
Chapter 7.
ReplyDelete“Collective wisdom can be an act of transcendence, a testament that we are not as separate as we think. Psychologist Daniel Golemam, addressing the role of mirror neuron in the brain, reminds us that humans are capable of not only mimicking the actions of others but reading intentions and emotions that allow for ‘a shared sensibility, bringing the outside inside us: to understand another, we become like the other - at least a bit’ “ (168).
This passage speaks of the fact that collective wisdom is a real and physical experience. We are biologically pre-disposed to be able to have a shared understanding of the, and with the others. We are capable of doing this because we can read others’ emotions and intentions, and not just their explicitly expressed communication. As we read these clues, we bring a part of the emotions that surround us into ourselves, adopting the feelings of others as our own.
In my opinion, the importance of this passage lies in its recognition of the fact that empathic communication is natural for us; it is the way nature intended for us to communicate. All too often, we become embroiled into our own emotions and fail to see and recognize the validity of emotions expressed by others, creating a sort of unnatural wall between others and ourselves. This may be a result of stress, and such self-isolation in and of itself works to multiply tension, and it is utterly unnatural. We can solve many of our problems through consciously trying to follow our innate need for shared sensibility with others.
Chapter 8.
«Creating a safe place for inquiry can be counterintuitive. When conflict emerges, our reaction is often to contract and become more isolated. A mindfulness practice can be to notice an inclination in ourselves to become rigid and dogmatic. Instead of acting from a habitual stance of wanting to be right, we can gently redirect our attention to examining our assumptions and inquiring into what is possible with others.” (177)
This passage points out the apparent contradiction between our inclination to “stick to our guns” in a conflict, and the usually more beneficial for us conciliatory and self-examining approach. When challenged in a conflict, we tend to become more entrenched in our opinions, which further inflames passions on all sides, and tends to lead to our isolation, making mutually agreeable conflict resolution difficult if not impossible. On the other hand, if we forego our urge to be always right and look into examining our assumption and the position of others, we can avoid conflict altogether or solve it more easily.
I find the notions expressed in this passage important because of the link the authors make between holding our position rigid in a conflict and the increased isolation. While being the one to “prevail” in a conflict may look outwardly beneficial, the long-term implications of an increased isolation outweigh any potential short-term gain of a “win”. The better course of action is to seek conciliation in place of conflict, rather than attempt to reconcile following one, even if you happen to be a “prevailing” party in it.
Chapter 7 quote:
ReplyDeleteWhen Briskin explains how 'a more hopeful future' is created when we create supportive, caring communities of people, he quotes Angeles Arrien's view: "'I think that collective work, group work, organizational work, and community work can heal family dynamics or continue to repeat the [...] I think the human spirit always wants to make a contribution. And I don't think there are enough invitations'" (Briskin 156).
I strongly agree with Arrien that family and group dynamics are positively influenced by the ability to allow every person to have a voice. Arrien also argues that all humans have the desire to contribute to a common goal or idea and often we don't allow enough opportunities for this. I believe Briskin uses this quote to further illustrate how important it is to function in groups who get together to support each other and allow every person to give their input. Briskin argues that this environment helps people explore their pasts and create a productive future.
This passage is important to me because I truly believe people functioning in collective groups (like families with a specific dinner time) promotes healthier relationships. Furthermore, I am aware there are studies in which children in families who had dinner together where less likely to have behavioral problems and participate in criminal activities later in life. I like how Arrien explains this environment is so successful because all human beings have a desire to be a part of a greater whole and we want to contribute our ideas and share experiences with others. In regards to my swamp issue group, keeping this idea in mind will help me remember that everyone is an asset to our project and wants to contribute; I just need to give them the opportunity to speak.
Chapter 8 quote:
In order to illustrate the act of deep listening, Briskin quotes Underwood: "'If you want to truly listen to someone else,' she told us, 'you must empty yourself and let them fill the emptiness. There must be nothing inside you but a great willingness to hear, to listen" (Briskin 179).
Briskin relates listening to a deeper, almost meditative state of being. By using a quotation form Underwood, he describes that in order to properly listen, you have to let go of your personal thoughts and feelings to you are completely open to hear. This allows us to fully be present so we can listen to people past their words to hear the true meaning.
I really enjoy this quotation because it helps me visually understand the importance of listening. To properly listen, I can not simply clear my mind and allow some thoughts to drift in and out, I must empty my entire being so I can be 100% receptive to what the speaker is really articulating. Sometime I drift away from being present with people so, since I am very visual, I like how this imagery will stick with me. This will help my Swamp group because I am the facilitator and I often take a good amount of control so this will help me back off and be silent while other speak so I can give them all my attention. This will help others feel what they have to say is important because our group is only as effective as our quietest person.
*My page numbers are different because I am using the eBook version of the book.
ReplyDeleteChapter 7: “Collective wisdom can be an act of transcendence, a testament that we are not as separate as we think" (40).
The author is describing how becoming a part of a group's collective wisdom is a way of rising above our assumed separateness in pursuit of improving the world, and acknowledging our interconnectedness that has always existed.
I feel that this quote is important to my "swamp" group because through working on our project together we have already begun to realize how important our input is as a whole. When assigning group roles we agreed that no one's input will be limited to just one area. We will be free flowing with our end result is contributions so that our end result is achieved through this "collective wisdom".
Chapter 8: “This is a critical time in human history for our visions of a better world to be represented in tangible forms” (17).
The author is explaining how important it is that we as humans begin to think about strategy for implementing changes that are meant to improve the world. We need to ask ourselves what these "visions of a better world" are, and begin to design a plan that we can grasp and work towards.
This applies to my small group because that is exactly what we are doing with our school nutrition project. We plan on creating a logical path towards understanding. We will be analyzing what is currently going on, why it is happening, and what can be done to fix or start to improve the issue.
Another quote I really enjoyed taking in was in the final reflection on page for of my eBook:
ReplyDelete“With a breath in, we would recall that it is often in the darkest times of our own lives and in the darkest times in history that new ways, new possibilities were imagined” (4).
Chapter 7
ReplyDelete“If, for example, we are with people who believe in us and seek the best from us, we will find resources within ourselves that we had not imagined and ways of contributing that had not been foreseen” (151). It is important to remember every person’s innate intelligence, including our own. If we surround by people who trust and believe in us we will be comfortable enough and sure of ourselves to offer up our best. Conversely, if we make people, again, including ourselves, feel like they are not good enough to contribute, their ideas are not worthy of our attention, they will not speak up and ideas will not shared. We can find the best in ourselves and others when we start by believing it is there.
If we are aware of each others innate intelligence we will be rewarded as a Swamp Group with fabulous ideas and solutions none of us had thought of or considered. Our possibilities are only bound by our imaginations and our imaginations can run wild if we feel safe in our environment.
Chapter 8
“The shift from individual experts to group expertise requires continual awareness of our tendency to fall back on habitual behaviors, particularly a false reliance on hierarchy for solutions and unconscious habits of dominance over others” (185). The expertise of the group can be more productive then the expertise of the individual. We often rely on the “boss” to come up with the solutions, when we would be better served by having the whole groups input. When we assume dominance over others they are not likely to share their ideas. When one person shares their idea it may not be “the one” but it allows others to build on it. Groups can come up with ideas that would have never been if one person had not first shared their idea.
I think this relates to our Swamp Groups because we need to remember to make sure we are contributing and being heard. It is easy for me to see the facilitator as the “boss” and look to them to tell me what to do. It is essential that we remember as a group, each person’s ideas and voice is as important as every other persons, and remember to encourage all voices to be equally heard.
Brisken said " healing is not cure, but a better way to live with our wounds and restore a sense of meaning and purpose to our lives (151). The author is saying healing one person from a wound is not the case. the point is that solving one challenges or obstacles in our enviroment helps us to grow and become more mature. author is also implying inorder to do that we have come together as a group and solve a big problem. I found this very interesting because it relates to our swamp issue. This made me think that instead of looking at one sick person but look for more sick people and solve that problem as a whole. not just solving one spare but a whole so inorder to do that you need people aroud that can help solve that swawp issue.
ReplyDeleteChapter 7: "Collective wisdom--a depth of awareness, insight, and transcendent knowing leading to profound action--often begins from a small intuitive seed and grows with imagination. Group members come to trust that if we tend to what is most immediate and aligned with purpose, the thread of a larger pattern will reveal itself" (162). I have already noticed in our swamp group how quickly that "seed" has begun to grow. Being given a topic and a group of people that are passionate about the big picture and the changes that need to be made, there is no telling what kind of large impact a few community college students could have on such a major issue such as sex trafficking. I think the authors really struck a chord with that phrase in that it is amazing what change can really look like in our society when a group of people come together with a common purpose and are willing to make the effort to make a difference.
ReplyDeleteChapter 8: "An individual's finding a community of like-minded people is a first step, but we cannot stop there. This is a critical time in human history for our visions of a better world to be represented in tangible forms. Finding such forms requires tolerance for uncertainty and faith that what is still unknown will reveal itself in positive growth" (183). I think that it is often easy for people to find "like-minded" groups and simply join for the purpose of being tolerated as opposed to the purpose of actually making a change! Having a common view on something means nothing if small steps are not taken to actually achieve the vision that we have. Although it can be scary to take on a swamp issue, especially one that is as harsh a reality as sex trafficking, the key is to embrace the fact that we can never know the outcome going into it, nor we can we ever know the impact that we will have until we take the leap of fath. The key is to start with realistic steps to make improvements and continue to look for the next move along the way. The big picture is a tough thing to look at, and sometimes it requires that we only look at it inch by inch until we have seen the whole thing.
Chapter 7: "Together they refer to the interdependence of human beings and the spirit of togetherness that is the goal of collective activity. It is a philosophy of grasping our "together" nature--that what happens to one happens to us all" (149).
ReplyDeleteI agree with this passage because togetherness is the most crucial thing in group community. It seems like each body and soul merge into one whole big body and therefore it will affect the whole community if there was one little part of the community did not work well. For example if someone in the group was sick and did not contribute well, the whole group should feel the negative atmosphere around them and it makes the group languid, therefore Briskin enlightened this concept by "what happens to one, happens to us all".
This passage is important to me because I think it is important for each individual to bring positive atmosphere to the group so the group can work the best collectiveness as possible which resulting in the best result.
Chapter 8: "the practice of creating safe spaces for inquiry, an essential element for element for enabling groups to have the reflective time necessary to birth new insights and make sound judgement" (175).
From the four practices of mindfulness that Briskin states in the book, I believe the first practice is the most inspiring one. Briskin states that keeping safe spaces are essential in the groups. each person in the group has their own safe spaces. when the safe spaces of one person is disturbed, that person felt threatened and might not feel belongingness in the group. the definition of "safety" by Briskin is being respectful towards others like listening to others' opinion and embracing diversity in the groups.
I think this practice should really be implemented during the group discussion. As a group member, we always have to provide the safe spaces to other members of the group member. having been said, we should not force specific person to speak up during the discussion like, "Hey, do you have anything to say?" or "Hey, speak up". Those phrases lead one to uncomfortable feeling in the groups as one was unprepared to speak up in the class. Thus, one will feel his safe spaces were threatened and the feeling of belongingness in the group was gone. So, it's better to let one has their own time to think about the topic and be ready to speak in the discussion. Rather than force specific group member to speak, it's better to ask the whole group to speak during the discussion, like "Does anyone have anything to say?" Hence, all of the group members will feel safe in the groups and feel comfortable to speak. As a result, the effective communication in the group will prevail.
In chapter seven Briskin and his colleagues point out that “Conflict can be an invitation for a higher order of resolution. This means listening, deciphering, and unlocking new alternatives. It means achieving a new understanding of the situation and grasping the basic needs of all those involved. It often entails grappling with paradox and allowing all the different layers of history to come into a new alignment” (157).
ReplyDeleteThe authors are pointing out that conflict is not always negative it can be a positive in disguise. Disagreeing amongst each other in a group can bring to attention details and perspectives that were not considered earlier. Furthermore it helps the group address these issues and use these disagreements as a means to join forces. In addition ‘conflict’ can get the group member to stop, think and actually listen to what other members have to offer. This passage is important as we collectively begin to dive into our swamp issues as a group because different ideas and perspectives will be taking place. As a group we have to be ready for this and use our differences as opportunities hear one another out as well as incorporate everyone’s ideas so we can address our ‘swamp issue’ from multiple standpoints. And therefore through this process come up with a real solution!
In chapter eight Briskin and his colleagues define mindfulness as “a mental state characterized by concentrated awareness of ones thoughts, actions, and motivations… It is a long held tradition identified with engendering insight and wisdom” (174).
Practicing “mindfulness’ in my terms is simply being aware of other peoples thoughts, beliefs, feelings and in return being aware of what I say or do and in what interpretation it might be taken in. We as humans have the tendency to inject our own interpretation into what someone is saying to us rather then simply taking in what is being said. Briskin and his colleagues are trying to point out that by practicing ‘mindfulness’ other people can inject their own interpretation into our words and in return we won’t unconsciously do the same when being addressed. Practicing ‘mindfulness’ will be especially important when we work collectively as a group because I believe it will encourage everyone to share their ideas without being afraid to challenge other members and yet do it with respect so there are no misinterpretations. Everyone will feel free to thrown in their opinion and challenge their teammates because they will be mindful of on another as well as themselves so no one crosses anthers border. Further more this will indirectly create an atmosphere of safety because since every one is practicing ‘mindfulness’ there will be no one to shoot down and discriminate the others idea disrespectfully but challenge it and explain their reasons. Additionally team members will encourage each other to contribute their thoughts as well as step back and absorb on another words and therefore there is no room for simply injecting pre determined ideas. Overall practicing this skill successfully will help our group efficiently communicate.
Brisken writes, “To be foolish is human, but the capacity to choose between acts leading to folly or to wisdom is a uniquely human gift,” (148) I believe Brisken was saying-Yes it is okay to make mistakes, it is human to do so. Humans should know what leads them to what could positively affect them or negatively affect them. What I think a more useful message could have been-
ReplyDeleteYes it is okay to make mistakes. All beasts make mistakes. Yes from those mistakes you may learn something that can give you different choices than what you had before you made the mistake. Being the human beast, you should learn from your mistakes and then be able to make better choices.
Brisken later says, “If the group operates within a certain range of safety and challenge, it will act with greater instinct for innovation, from curiosity, and even with a willingness to risk its identity” (150).
If you do not oppress anyone in a group it will make them feel safe enough to think about all possibilities even in times of questioning what one knows as right, wrong or truth.
These things are both important to solving swamp issues. Swamp issues are “swamp” because no person or group has been able to see the solution. To see the solution, you have to be able to see the cause. To see the cause you can not be contained by a box you or others try to put you in.
Brisken writes, “The third practice involves shifting our attention from seeing individual experts to recognizing the power of group expertise,” (175) This quote reminds me of the saying “you are only as strong as your weakest player,” Though there might be someone in the group that you view as a weak player or “not an expert” their insights may help the group towards positive growth or problem solving. The act of viewing them as a “weak player” may be the factor that is weakening the group.
In chapter eight Brisken writes, “Groups need to continue despite setbacks. No improvements can be sustained if a group is dependent on everything going right from the beginning or on any one individual,” (185). This makes me think of a message that I got from chapter seven. The message that it is okay to make mistakes. Solving swamp issues will most likely take exploring many possible solutions. The road to solving the problem might take recognizing what to rule out.
from Chapter 8 " deep listening as mindfulness practice extends listening and sensing to groups and larger collective (180). I believe the author is saying that if we practice as much as possible about deep listening we might be able to understood what others are feeling in general and going through and we might be able to feel empathy for other larger groups instead of just one person literally. I found this quote interesting because it sort of connects with the chapter 7 i mentioned earlier in the way taking one step to further understanding of larger issue such as a swamp issue and that using this techinues we might be able to come together and solve things that sort of thing.
ReplyDeleteIn Chapter 7, Briskin describes how emotional conflict needs to be addressed “Healing is necessary for those in conflict precisely because wounding occurs on the inside, where we do not see it” (157). He goes on to explain how this can paralyze any forward movement for a group. That we are emotionally connected and feelings of validation and “redress” are needed. This I found interesting because internal wounds are sometimes hard to always see. A person has to speak up to get a problem addressed. Yet this may be difficult if they are wounded. So, this is where I think using our communication skills about reading unspoken cues come into play. Also creating a safe environment where people feel like they can speak up. I think this is especially important in our swamp group, since we relatively unfamiliar with each other, to be aware that we need to be respectful of each other and feelings.
ReplyDeleteIn Chapter 8, Briskin says “The movement from individual experts to group experts is a way of recognizing that “we” can be more affective than any “I” in the room” (184). A reminder for me that our collective minds are better than any single mind. None of us have all the answers and is why we come together to be more than we can be on our own. To lean on one another and their strengths and even my own strengths will grow from being apart of our group.
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ReplyDeleteChapter 7
ReplyDeleteBrisken states, “Emergence in groups is the experience of bringing into manifestation something elusive but worthwhile. Whether alone or in a group, the creativity associate with emergence always has the energy of making, devising, producing, shaping. When aligned with addressing the needs we see in the world, creation of this type is a form of love” (171).
Emergence is the act of discovering that the little seed of an intangible idea which has been sprouting in your mind is now coming to life. You begin to realize that this little seed is part of a bigger garden and worth investing your time, effort and care. Instead of it being one little plant it is now becoming a big beautiful garden that may be able to not only feed your family but others. As this idea grows and the possibilities of the garden become limitless we can see how this one little seed, or act of love, can not only save one but many.
This passage spoke to me because as I spend time with my group I can see how passionate we all are on the subject of mental illness. This passage reminds me that no idea is too small to make a difference; that out of the smallest idea big things can happen. I’m excited to come to a place where our group starts to feel emergence and the excitement that can go along with that. I hope that we can remember that no idea is too small; it could be the one big idea that makes a difference.
Chapter 8
Brisken discusses, “Differences in power may be attributed to institutional hierarchy, seniority, prior experience, or professional certification, but regardless of the reasons, groups can better access a way of knowing collectively by softening the edges of power differentials. We honor the wisdom emerging among us when we acknowledge each other’s contribution, rather than confirming each other’s relative position in the group” (188).
Each person in a group comes to the group with their own set of experiences that may deem them experts, leaders or is some position of authority. However, to be able to truly come to together as a group and move forward we must erase the authority lines that divide us. It is important to respect what each person is contributing to the group rather than the meaning that their position of authority represents. Each person is an individual first and regardless of their status or expertise has an idea that is just as important as the next person in the group.
I think this is a really important point to remember in a group. There are times you assume that one person is an authority on a subject based on their occupation. However, there could be a person in your group that may not be a professional but has a personal experience with the issue you are trying to solve; neither person is right or wrong. It’s like I talked about in Chapter 7, it could be that one little idea that seems silly in your own mind that becomes the one big idea that moves your group forward. We need to honor each other for our experiences and our ideas and work together not letting our assigned duties draw that line between us. We can’t let our “expertise” confine us to only one way of thinking. As a group we need to be able to blend those lines until we become experts together.
Ch. 7
ReplyDelete“Seeking collective wisdom is a conscious attempt to elevate group life from its history of fighting tooth and claw to reach the top of the hierarchy or achieve dominance over others” (148).
The Author is comparing a traditional structure of power being at the top of a pyramid structure and power being achieved through equals working together. The idea is collectively a group is more powerful when the ideas of all the group members are considered with equal weight. An individual at the top of a pyramid can use a group to help make decisions but a group working together equally can come to a decision that embodies several different points of view and includes everyone’s individual experiences in life that led them to say or make that particular decision. I picked this passage because I thought it described the picture on the cover of the book very well. The shell is wrapped around itself making a very strong center, but to make the center strong it took all the force from the very last part of the outside spiral to keep it together. The very center of the shell (the decision of the group) is supported by all parts of the shell (the whole group)
I believe that this concept is a great representation of how we intend to work together as a swamp group. It can also give us a good example of what will happen if we do not support each other and our opinions and decisions in the process.
Ch. 8
“Monkey mind does not allow us to be receptive to others because it is never content with the present moment, always shifting back and forth between past and future” (180).
The author is saying here that if we do not allow ourselves to appreciate the present we will not understand what others are communicating to us. This general idea can be associated to suspending as a method of listening. We must let go of anything in our mind that is distracting us from the actual message that is being conveyed to us as listeners.
Being able to listen to each other in our group is very important to the greater goal of solving a large problem.
Chapter 7
ReplyDeleteBriskin quotes an anthropologist Angeles Arrien, he quotes her saying, "I think the human spirit always wants to make a contribution. And I don't think there are enough invitations" (156).
Briskin uses Arrien's quote to back up his thoughts that as individuals we have a personal desire to contribute towards some cause. When these ideas and attitudes are pooled together, their collective power is increased. This cohesion of ideas and group aim leads towards solving problems that are bogging us down. It creates an opportunity for growth.
I believe this is an important concept in our swamp groups because without the collective will to cooperate towards a greater cause we will fail as a group. The entire point of the group project is to have all of the group members actively engaged and contributing towards the goals that we have defined collectively. Our group in particular, has taken the subject of sex trafficking. This is a common interest that we believe needs attention and action to abolish this issue. We need each others input and participation in order to have well thought out ideas and plans to move forward and progress.
Chapter 8
Briskin suggests, "There is still more to be discovered in our fellowship with others that can lead to the freedom and creative potential of human communities" (173).
Briskin is using this statement to setup the chapter. In this chapter there are four skills that are discussed and their applications are given. In the statement, the author is suggesting that aside from people wanting to make contributions, there are techniques and skills that can be used to help the creative potential flourish.
This is important to our swamp group because we must be cognizant and fully aware of how we can help each other with the creative potential that we can offer each other. If we successfully create a safe space, listen deeply, recognize the power of our group and ask essential questions we can really make an important impact on our swamp issue.
In The Power of Collective Wisdom Chapter 7, Briskin writes, “Tension needs to find a way to the surface and to be worked out in ways that cultivate respect and regard for each other and the group’s task. We need to see others as purposeful and contributing positively; when we don’t, competition and conflict become wounding rather than a creative tension” (157).
ReplyDeleteThe author is writing about how the need to let tensions be felt and expressed in a positive way so as to contribute to the group’s task. People need to learn how to respectfully take criticism, and distribute criticism which if done correctly will uplift the group. This is done when acknowledging what others say is genuine and is meant to contribute to the group. If one goes into criticism with a negative mind state when being criticized it may hurt the group. It is also important for group’s to acknowledge individual’s ideas and thoughts as these constitute the success of a group as they build the wealth of knowledge.
These ideas may be very important in our swamp issues group. If people are “tube sucking” our group with constant repetition of ideas or produce negative feelings within the group, than someone has to step up to the plate, so to speak, and criticize that person. While the one being criticized must step beyond themselves and see that what is being said is for the greater good of the group. On the flip side, it is crucial for the group to respectfully acknowledge each person’s ideas. I feel this is a idea that people must look at. One must step outside of themselves in order to collaborate with others in groups. While it may be hard to actually criticize and take criticism the wisdom of self-control and knowing when to say things and nor to say things here is self evident.
In The Power of Collective Wisdom Chapter 8, the Brisken writes, “Creating safe spaces for inquiry makes us mindful that it is important for individuals to feel both unique and part of the groups. When this basic need is frustrated, we stop being interested in what the group or collective can do.” (176).
It is necessary for a group and its members that are searching for some higher truth to make the groups individuals feel they are needed and important to a group. People need to feel that they are contributing and valuable to feel they are in the group. If people feel this interconnectedness with the group then the people may stop being interested in the group and ultimately not contribute effectively. In order to circumvent this occurrence the group must cultivate an environment where its members feel safe and where it is safe to share their feelings.
This idea is essential in our swamp issue groups. A positive environment that is filled with honesty, understanding, and where people feel that they are wanted in the group is essential. People must be able to feel like themselves, and that they are being listened too. People must also be able to agree to disagree if their ideas conflict. These will be essential to the success of our swamp groups. I feel this is a very necessary thing to know going into our swamp issue groups, it really resonates with me and although it may be difficult to implement, it words of wisdom is undeniable.
In chapter 7 of collective wisdom I stopped many times to think about what was being told and how I could relate it into my every day living. It took a long time to get through this chapter! But I so enjoyed every page. Finally getting to the end I found what I was looking for when the authors summarize,"Creation as a function of emergence, alongside healing, community, and moral imagination becomes an extension of our human capacity for joy. We know ourselves as something larger, not as something separate or alone"(171). The authors are saying that we will be able to create brilliantly as never before created when we include all the other elements involved. Once obtained we will have what no man can ever buy. How GREAT is that? It is like sort of giving birth to really awesome part of the world. Its not all of you but part of you makes up the difference, it wasn't easy at times you may cry, but you remember how many people you trust and love are surrounding you to help get through the hard times. In this chapter of collective wisdom there is a support system that rocked!
ReplyDeleteThere are many things in this chapter that we can use in our "swamp" group and any other part of swampiness that enters our lives. We all want to create and have that humane joy but we cant forget how to get there. We will have the chance to gain perspectives that can only be formed together, this will require deepest listening and a safe environment for exploration.
Chapter 8
the authors describes,"this is a critical time in human history for our visions of a better world to be represented in tangible forms. Finding such forms requires tolerance for uncertainty and faith that what is still unknown will reveal its self in a positive growth'(183).
the authors are giving an empowerment speech here. they are saying we need to act now, trust that where we making a change every step of the way. Sometimes we may think the small stuff wont matter when in fact we are all made up of the small stuff. In our groups we should remember to take everything into consideration no matter how small it may help us to grow.-Angelica
Brisken mentions in chapter 8 that, "what creates safety for inquiry are the possibilities of being understood and keeping our dignity intact" (132). I found this understanding of "safety" important to understanding his statement in chapter 7, "collective wisdom occurs most reliably when group members feel both safe and challenged to find what is best in themselves and what is best in the group" (116).
ReplyDeleteBriskin adds in chapter 8 that, "Seeking collective wisdom in in groups is an invitation for transparency of operations, involving such things as real-time data, group huddles, and opportunities for both individual and team reflection" (137).
I think tranparency is needs more than an 'invitation'. I think it's critical to reaching the group's purpose. It's important to be able to safely explore all the contributing factors of our swamp issues; however, I've felt it be incredibly more difficult in practice than in theory. I have often wondered what that is about and knew on a sub-conscious level that people felt they had something to lose in doing so. I NEVER considered that it could run as deep as to threaten their 'dignity'.
When people have struggled to be transparent with their feelings on issues of importantce to them, I have many times heard them express the fear that they would be "misunderstood."
Briskin's provision of the Appriciative Inquiry methodology as a resource gives us the opportunity to have those courageous conversations in a way that preserves the dignity of the individual and the community.
As I consider the swamp issue of college drop outs, I anticipate some of the challenge some will face is the feeling some may have that they have failed the student somehow. I wonder if this isn't part of the reason we don't engage the students themselves in solving this problem.
Briskin says in Chapter 8 that,
ReplyDelete“Deep listening is a practice of emptying out the noise and rattle that accompanies much of our own thoughts. It is finding a quiet space in our own mind that allows us to sense into the other” (180). What I think Briskin is saying is you must quiet the thoughts that are running through your head to be able to be present.
This passage is important to me as I begin to work on my swamp group since I need to really listen and be focused. I'm always thinking of a million things at a time and sometimes zone completely out. I can be their physically but mentally I can be absent. I am learning deep listening skills and this quote reminds me I really need to do that when working with my group.
Briskin reflects “It is through healthy groups, families, communities, and organizations that we cultivate healthy individuals, who in turn contribute their best selves to the group” (150). I believe what the author is saying is that when an individual surrounds themselves with positive people it allows them to bring positivity to the group. It is through our families and communities that we are taught to respect people and their opinions. We become individuals who have developed personal growth that we can carry with us when we work as a group. We use the resources we learn to make a contribution to the group. I think this quote is important to me as I begin to work in a group setting because I want everyone including myself to work in a comfortable environment and most importantly a positive one. It allows everyone to bring forth the best they have to make the group succeed.
ReplyDeleteChapter 8 Briskin notes "Beyond basic safety, we want to be with others in ways that recognize who we are, that celebrate our talents, and allow us to contribute. Creating safe spaces for inquiry makes us mindful that it is important for individuals to feel both unique and part of the group" (176). I believe the author is implying that when we are in a group it is important to look for people that recognizes the talents we have and praise us. We wouldn't want to be with a group that brings us down. A person who recognizes what we can contribute to the group allows us to be involved. It truly is important for the individual person to feel like they are special and they possess a quality in which only they can bring to the table. Being in a group this is extremely important because we kind of feed off of our group members so if someone is praising me I work harder to be better. The group must create a safe learning space for everyone so everyone feels comfortable and at ease to speak up when they need too.
ReplyDeleteChapter 7
ReplyDelete"To be foolish is human, but the capacity to choose between acts leading to folly or to wisdom is a uniquely human gift (148)." I believe that what the author is saying is that, despite the nature of our existence involving that things will go wrong, we have the ability to consciously learn from those experiences and those of others before us. To shape our actions in a way that affects everything around us positively and that in this way (to be cliché) change the world.
The passage struck me as interesting because, in most cases our swamp groups are trying to better something in our society. To reflect on the idea that everyone makes mistakes even though things aren't originally done with wisdom and consideration of the big picture. In the end most people can see the issue if presented with it kindly and convincingly.
Chapter 8
"As a practice, deep listening can be experienced as a gentle detachment from the commentary in our own mind and a turning to others. ... Deep listing is a practice that allows us to read between the lines and listen with our heart to the hearts of others (181)." To me this summed up what we are trying to do in most of our exercises, to in a way be the person your listing to. Not just hearing, but feeling and possibly even seeing the information given by the speaker. Without judgment, criticism, or associating with what you yourself experienced.
This in a way ties similarly like chapter 7 into the swamp issues approaches. That one needs to not only hear the issues and one's own solutions for them, but also see the concerns involved in changing after your new concept and all the things that will be affected by it for good and for bad.