focus on creative development
sister i is different from other women groups and discussion circles in that it encourage women to focus on their unique and individual creative needs. Be open and sensitive to the creative goals of each woman and stay focused on your own creative goals when it comes your time to share. This implies that each member must maintain her aim and avoid the chit chat that can easily progress when we mention our children.
attendance/commitment
The success of every sister i circle is dependent upon each members commitment to herself, her creative spirit and the rest of the circle. It is essential that everyone in the circle honors this principle to ensure a bond and understanding that all women involved are serious about their creative quest as an individual and as a group. Each member is a co-facilitator and should take responsibility for keeping the group energized and running within the sister i circle guidelines. Members are asked to respect the schedule and begin each meeting on time. Members should inform another member when they are going to be late or unable to attend. Those who have missed are responsible for informing themselves about the missed meetings content.
sharing
There are many opportunities for everyone to share their thoughts and ideas. Be respectful of one another time and avoid interruptions that could side track the focus of her attention. One idea is to pass a stone or other object from member to member that signifies whose turn it is to talk. The one sharing can ask for feedback when she is finished. Be compassionate, supportive, and willing to share your own struggles and achievements.
The leaders should keep an eye on the clock to make certain each member has a chance to share. There will be moments when one woman needs to share more than another — be sensitive to her needs and allow for this, but try not to make it a regular occurrence. As every meeting is set up differently, the time for sharing will need to be altered to accommodate the content of the jewel boxSM. All members are to help the leaders by being watchful of the time.
confidentiality
A group will not thrive if participants can not share at a deep level. It must be mutually agreed upon by all members that the sensitive and private discussions shared in the circle are to stay with the circle and not be shared away from the group.
a. guidelines — sister i circle principles and practices
next: b. format — sister i circle format
c. jewel box — a seasonal format
d. roles — facilitating a sister i circle
e. environment — staging your sister i circle
