Since we seem to be having such a problem with this lately, I thought I'd go ahead and post this. I found something in a book and used it as a template for what I wanted to say. Ok...here goes....
There is nothing more annoying than coming by information secondhand: "I heard ____ from someone, but I can't tell you who..." and all that jazz. Church members have a responsibility to themselves, their fellow members, and the Church entire to communicate their issues for themselves and not rely on the "telephone" game. Conversly, they have a responsibility to NOT relay criticism, gossip, or rumors, but instead encourage the one with the issue to take it directly to the person with which they are having the problem. If necessary, a Church officer (Senior Liaison officer or a Board member) may be brought in to mediate an issue.
Direct communication, when done with courtesy and respect, fosters honesty and trust within any organization. Direct communication is part of assuming responsibility for one's own actions and is expected of every member of this Church, from the Board of Directors down. Every member must be and is encouraged to take responsibility and speak for him or herself.
Authenticity: Inquire from a genuine desire to know and understand. Listen fully, with the intent to truly hear. Speak your truth, from the heart, without attempting to make someone wrong.
Respect: Speak one at a time; do not interrupt. Avoid probing, giving advice, or attempting to change someone else's point of view.
Thoughtfullness: Speak only when moved to speak. Take time to reflect before speaking. Honor silence.
Inclusion: Speak through the center for all to hear. Allow time and space for every voice.
Openness: Seek meaning, not closure. Suspend assumptions.
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All opinions stated in my posts are just that...my opinions...and should not be held in any way as the opinions of the CEPF Board of Directors or of anyone other than myself. - Rev. Heidi Andrews VP CEPF
MM Rev., Thank you for the post. It is a good reminder for all. especially the point of speaking from the center. BB Angel
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Yeah, I thought so. It says so much. It's such a shame that all these people that 'claim' to be Pagan truly don't follow the creed of their beliefs. Oh well.
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All opinions stated in my posts are just that...my opinions...and should not be held in any way as the opinions of the CEPF Board of Directors or of anyone other than myself. - Rev. Heidi Andrews VP CEPF
I agree with you Rev, but then again, we have to work with what we have, and hopefully assist those that feel that they need to undermine others to feel better. Agreed - what can one do.
This is definately something that needs addressing with as many Fellow pagans as possible. The more we push on getting people to be straight and honest with each other the more peaceful and happier everyone will be. Thank you Heidi LadyWolfe an Raven
Hey everyone as we ll know and have discussed on other occasions the most important thing that we have to remeber is respect and honesty. I fell that wea ren;t here just for ourselves, we are here for other people that want to know more about paganisim and about who and what we are. yes there are times when we might have a disagreement, but in that case we all need to let cooler heads prevail and "TALK" things out. I think that the church has gone through enough dramma already and we don't need or want anymore.
Well I've ranted and raved for long enough Namaste and mp.
This is definately something that needs addressing with as many Fellow pagans as possible. The more we push on getting people to be straight and honest with each other the more peaceful and happier everyone will be. Thank you Heidi LadyWolfe an Raven
Greetings and merry meet!
I wanted to say something about being honest and open...this is all well and good, but what matters a lot is HOW you come across when being honest. I have never been one to believe in BRUTAL honesty. I tend to think there is always a way to convey the truth without hurting a person's feelings anymore then you have to. I hope what I say makes sense *Smiles*
As for Heidi's post, I found it really good and enjoyed reading it. Keep up the good work!
I also agree that this is a matter that has been needed to be brought up for quite awhile. I feel that both Druid and Heidi have brought up some very important points.
Hey everyone as we ll know and have discussed on other occasions the most important thing that we have to remeber is respect and honesty. I fell that wea ren;t here just for ourselves, we are here for other people that want to know more about paganisim and about who and what we are. yes there are times when we might have a disagreement, but in that case we all need to let cooler heads prevail and "TALK" things out. I think that the church has gone through enough dramma already and we don't need or want anymore.
