Dialogue

On June 23, the Learning Group hosted a reflective, interactive presentation on the practice of Dialogue, led by Joe Dabek and Carole Kasper. The learning experience was well organized and inspiring.

Dialogue was described as an intervention that moves a group beyond individual perspectives to build a collective understanding. The outcome of dialogue is clarity, which comes when "what was implicit becomes explicit."

Dialogue is seen as a means of achieving a higher level of creativity through collective wisdom. It is viewed as the heart of the creative process. One reflection related to "Intentional Dialogue" is that a community built upon commitment rather than compliance would be more sustainable. Supporting this notion, Linda Ellinor and Glenna Gerard in their book, DIALOGUE: Rediscover the Transforming Power of Conversation (1998), consider that "Only group mind can shift group culture. Leaders can only be catalysts..." (pg. 254). This prompts important considerations for approaches to change management.

A video clip of the movie DANCES WITH WOLVES was used to highlight some of the skills necessary for effective dialogue. Upon reflecting about the patterns of communication that emerged, the group shared an understanding that listening without resistance and paying attention to the meaning that unfolds is essential to effective dialogue. Other guidelines for effective dialogue include:

• Focusing on shared meaning and learning. Reflecting on patterns and themes of thinking that emerge.

• Releasing the need for specific outcomes. The task is to enhance understanding not to make decisions.

• Respecting differences, an important consideration if we are to truly experience the rewards of diversity.

• Suspending roles and status so contributions are not limited by expectations associated with a role/authority.

• Sharing responsibility and leadership, thus encouraging everyone's participation.

• Speaking to the group, supporting a conversation that includes everyone.

• Listening and speaking when the spirit moves you.

• Balancing inquiry and advocacy. Inquiry builds understanding. Advocacy is needed to build shared meaning.

Discussions on dialogue were further enhanced with actual stories of dialogue in action, presented by Judy Otto of Foundations of Change and Maggie Herzig of the Public Conversations Project.

We then spent some time practicing dialogue skills in groups. We wrestled with "What are the issues and opportunities we face if we are to experience wholeness in ourselves, in our workplace and in our community?" Different perspectives were shared and we worked to build a common understanding. In reflecting on our individual group experiences, we recognized the difficulty of suspending judgments, learning to be comfortable with reflective silence, and developing an ability to work with divergent views without having to take sides. It was a great learning experience and we came away with a good understanding of the history of dialogue, the applications and practice. Resource handouts were very much appreciated.