We apologize that the earlier transmission of this newsletter had an incorrect link to the Journey of Illumination. The correct link is here.
Building a Community of Men Who are Elders
Yes, this is our work.
In December of 2012, Illuman assumed responsibility for the Men as Learners and Elders program. 2013 has been all about putting together a much-needed organizational infrastructure to make our work both sustaining and sustainable for the long term.
In 2014 we will set our sights on building a global community of elders. Elders are men who are committed to doing their soul/sacred work in the company of other men for the benefit of the world. Elders are men who are committed to doing what Bill Plotkin calls the "sacred dance."
So what about you? Have you started your Sacred Dance?
Dancing is perhaps a very funny, or strange, metaphor to use for creating a more meaningful life. For some of us men, we would perhaps focus only on how embarrassing it is to dance, or how much practice it takes to become a good dancer. And perhaps that's what makes the metaphor work. Dancing is hard work but, when well executed, it's also beautiful.
So we want to invite you into your dance. It might feel awkward at first. You might find that learning some new steps creates discomfort-especially when trying out those new moves in the presence of others. It might also be challenging to find a wise man to be your choreographer, and to gather a group of wise men to form a studio. But nothing worthwhile is accomplished without putting forth a good effort.
To kick-start your dance, here are some questions to get you moving.
- What is God calling me to do to begin or enhance my sacred dance?
- How can I create more space for the dance in my life?
- What new, or rediscovered, practices might I try in support of my soul work?
- Where can I seek more support for my dance?
- How can I support other men who are also seeking their sacred dance?
If you need some help in answering these questions, click
here to visit our Journey of Illumination webpage for suggestions on some next steps to take.
Video of the Month
Need Some Spiritual Inspiration?Click
here to watch Parker Palmer talk about the spiritual journey.
Hold the Date:
Illuman Conference, November 6 - 9, 2014
Please don't ask for the details yet; just hold the dates. We'll publish more information in November. This promises to be an incredible event with leadership from Illuman teachers and Fr. Richard Rohr.
Upcoming Men's Rights of Passage
Texas: October 16 - 20. For further information visit:
http://texasmalespirituality.org/mrop-application-form or email Barry Duncan at
bfduncan@swbell.net
