The Power Of Circles [Hardcover]

Communication is the key to all successful human interactions. In light of the expanding use of texting and other forms of electronic communication, we risk losing the personal, face-to-face meetings that have been the mainstay of positive relationships between individuals and groups for thousands of years. Lavery shows how the circle process is a powerful tool for overcoming this worrisome situation, as it offers a way to enhance communications, build and rebuild relationships, and improve problem-solving capabilities within families, neighborhoods, schools, corporations, and civic organizations. Narratives by participants in the Community Circles program attest to the capacity of people and groups to work together to resolve contentious issues, especially when they are provided with a safe place in which to tell their stories and be listened to by others--without judgment. The circle process has been used successfully for thousands of years in indigenous cultures. With the help of the insights in this book, we now have the opportunity to use circles today to resolve many of the challenging issues that confront our society. The Power of Circles is a valuable guide for the journey ahead. Norman Lavery reveals how in families, workplaces, and communities, whether planning for joy or struggling through difficultdecisions, circles can be adapted to turn contemporary conflicts into opportunities for building new relationships. Whether the issues addressed are across backyard fences or international borders, building new relationships is the most important outcome of circles. Based on Lavery's deep understanding of circles, this book provides aremarkable, practicalcontribution in engagingcircles in all aspects of our lives. --Barry Stuart, Author of Peacemaking Circles: Crime to Community and Building Consensus for a Sustainable Future Winston Churchill said, 'Jaw, jaw is always better than war-war.' Paradoxically, we are hyper-connected to one another through our l#-