One of the first regular workshops we’re hosting here is Speaking Circles – Developing Relational Presence.  Speaking Circles were developed by Lee Glickstein in San Anselmo California.  Studying with Lee last winter, it became apparent to me that though the format for Speaking Circles was quite simple, there was a lot more going on than met the eye. 

Something very interesting was happening when a small circle, 5 to 10 people, had committed to being fully present and supportive to each other for the 2, 5 and 7 minute speaking turns each took in front of the group.  In that field, the speaker was able to access a deeper more authentic place from which to speak….. and the increase in connection with the audience was palpable. 

For most people, speaking from such a place is not the day to day experience…. much less bringing more of that presence forward in our daily lives.  Speaking Circles are a place to exercise that muscle so to speak.... so that we can learn to better connect with our authentic self in our relation with others.

Half of the magic happens in the Circles themselves.  The other half happens when participants view their private videos after the event.  Watching the videos from my first Circles allowed me to see…or feel something in me that had not been visible to me before, and it changed my level of comfort with public speaking and my relationship with myself significantly.

I still attend monthly circles to this day….because I find the practice so valuable.  It’s a bit like coming home.  It feels good to now offer these Circles here at Highland Lake…especially since they tend to attract folks who are interested in living life more fully.

The core group behind the new Retreat Center we’re creating here at Highland Lake, is presently assembling resources in the evolution of consciousness for individuals, communities and businesses.... and a series of interesting workshops is now starting to come together.  From entry level gatherings like Speaking Circles to more comprehensive group processes like Appreciative Inquiry and Dynamic Self Governance, please check on our workshops and events page for the current schedule.