A number of months ago the idea struck me and its profound resonance left me unquestioning about the work I needed to do: to take the healing, community-building practice of DOWH to women who do not have access to such an embodied practice but who could stand to most benefit from it. The “what” was obvious. The “how”? Not so much. A social worker by training, I have experience in community outreach, counselling, group facilitation, project development, monitoring and evaluation, and fund development. This is my first endeavour of such scope, however, and I have consistently found myself at a loss as to what the next right steps are for this passion project. Until now I have been pushing more than flowing, which is undoubtedly indicating that a shift is called for.

What is missing? What is the right course of action? What exactly is the “how”? I put down my laptop and spreadsheets and to do lists (my linear, logical, habitual m.o.) and sat down with an unlined notebook and pencil and let my hand begin to doodle (taping into something deeper than my rational, trained mind). Without forcing anything in particular the lines began to turn into pictures and the pictures began to say things.

Nothing they revealed was surprising but rather reminded of the “why” of the work. Health, healing, heart, hearth, hands, help, happiness. Complementary spirals. Learning, growing, listening. Abundance of wisdom. Dancing OUR way.

It’s about community. Of course it is. So what am I doing trying to go this alone? Fear and control. But I continue to let fear know that it no longer rules my life. So I’m putting the call out. I’m asking for help. I’m soliciting advice. I’m inviting collaboration. I’m reaching out to community. Is that you?

I believe wholeheartedly in the work, in the dance, in being part of the change, the growth, the empowerment. This is my calling. What is yours? Are you called to share your experience, thoughts, ideas? Do you want to dance with me? Join my initial board of directors? Help connect with the community? Fund such a project or find others who will?

My intention is to keep this process open and clear, documenting my way through my own spiralling journey. One way I’m going to do this is through this blog. I’m even going to jump into the world of twitter (I guess I should say, start tweeting..?) Although I’m sending the information out, I want to ensure that there is two-way communication.

I hope to hear from you.

In light and dance,

Twyla