Closing Open Space without moving it . . .

[michael dobbie]

  You're right Jeff we have experienced a shift from
the usual on this list.
  The level of conversation has changed, has become
more personal, chaotic...
   and thus with some great potential of moving us a
little deeper...
   but only if we can be clear on our givens...on why
we are here and maybe some roles we may be consciously
or unconsciously being playing...
   ...and be clear on some facilitation details...
   ...covener(s), timelines, etc, on this
open-cyberspace that, yes, a few acknowledged human
limitations just may help us along in some way,

Michael.


Date:    Tue, 2 Oct 2001 10:29:43 -0700
From:    Jeff Aitken <ja at svn.net>
Subject:

Barry, thanks for your clarifying words.

The crisis brings up questions about this list that we
have not asked before. We have never in my memory had
sustained dialogue about anything other than OST,
except maybe God and poetry.   ;-)

I think we are all invited to play two roles here:
facilitators AND sponsors. As a facilitator I want to
hold space, not intervene, maybe ask if it's over. As
a sponsor I want to offer appropriate leadership.

What are skillful ways of leadership, without closing
or limiting this space? (What do I tell a client
sponsor about this?) I can invite others into a new
topic. I can tell the story of the list. I can work to
clarify the givens...

I'm fascinated with the notion of closing THIS space,
or imposing limitations. We are never barred from
posting anything, unless I steal your computer or
somehow unsubscribe you. We do not have a facilitator
or sponsor/boss who closes the space from a "heavy"
role. Or do we?

Like you, I noticed a shift in energy after I posted
the following:

"I feel concerned that our listserv may become
primarily a place to share info and opinions about
these world events. I fear that would change its
purpose. The tentative "givens" written in the FAQ
help me think about this. I ask that you consider this
as you write to the list."

Next time, perhaps I would do nothing. The delete key
protects the law of two feet. Yet what has happened is
important too... I have learned a lot in the last
week.

Jeff

-
Jeff Aitken
Berkeley CA USA: (01) 510.540.6576
JA at svn.net

And now, for something COMPLETELY different
(Cleese, et al)


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