by Françoise Norman and Ralph Doe

A series of four Saturday afternoon workshops were organized at Insitut Vajrayogini in south-western France, during which Françoise Norman and Ralph Doe piloted in French the 16 Guidelines – or 'attitudes' as they have been translated.

It was decided to limit the number of participants to 15 to overcome timidity, promote discussion, and allow ebb and flow of information. Everyone would have time to express him or herself in the small, cosy room which was used.

The 16 were dealt with in the obvious order, from 1 to 16, and each workshop was based on a wisdom theme; ‘How we think’, ‘How we act’, ‘How we relate to others’ and ‘How we find meaning’.

Francoise reported that she found facilitating a ‘living experience’ in that it was necessary to carefully check out the wisdom themes and ‘attitudes’ to be able to share them with others.

“While we were preparing the workshops it became obvious there were many approaches possible, and different ways of understanding and presenting them. It was a great opportunity to be open, practice tolerance, throw away preconceived ideas and discover the 16 anew”.

At the beginning or just after a preliminary discussion, a short period was dedicated to interiorize. Each ‘attitude’ was introduced differently to provide variation and participants were invited to interact and share, using mainly guided activitIes, but also a paperboard, videoclips and slideshows. And all ended on a high note, remembering the precious gifts we have received.

“We kept the workshops focussed on the individuals present and so underlined that the 16 are to be shared rather than taught. Search into oneself, dare to express something and listen to ideas one would never have imagined for oneself. Then there is that wonderful surprise to see the discussion deepen, personal wisdoms expressing themselves, but with an encouragingly universal note. It is sometimes a jolt to be reminded that we all belong to the same human family! It really is a trip inside oneself in the company of others”.

Ralph found facilitating for the first time an interesting challenge and enriching experience

“It is very motivating to delve into the French language to develop a culture-specific approach, in addition to the precious aids provided by the book” (which will soon be available in French translation).

Laetitia C. thanked both Françoise and Ralph for their initiative in organizing the workshops and expressed contentment with the exchanges and everything that working in a group can provide.

A big thank-you to all who have developed these tools for us.