Emergent Dialogue – A Way of Creating Deep Connections
Publication information:
Abstract
Emergent Dialogue is a form of group conversation where the participants create a field of belonging that unites them even when they are in different parts of the world. Something deep emerges when the participants slow down and speak and listen from their hearts. This talk will be presented as a very short Emergent Dialogue where six participants explain the practices of emergent dialogue and what they have meant to them.
Presenter Biographies
Bruce Kirchoff is a scientist, storyteller, and improviser who worked at the intersections of epistemology and spirituality. Drawing on philosophy and feminist theory he explored how communities shape consciousness and shared reality. Bruce facilitates intentional conversation groups, group storytelling, and group improvisation to help participants experience collective meaning-making through deep listening and authentic dialogue.
Sigurd Andersen Jr. is a long-time meditator who has engaged with multiple spiritual and self-development traditions. In recent years he has participated in and helped host multiple forms of "we space." He is an autodidact influenced by Buckminster Fuller, Stafford Beer, John Bennett, and recently author Natureza Gabriel.
Federico Halbrich is an educator and psychological counselor trained in Waldorf Pedagogy, Humanistic Psychology, and counseling. He coordinates Waldorf teacher training, facilitates philosophical-experiential workshops, leads Anthroposophical inner work practice groups, and serves the Anthroposophical Society in Argentina.
Eileen King met Marjorie Spock in 1971 and learned about Goethean Conversation, versions of which were practiced in the Camphill Communities in which Eileen lived for 21 years. Eileen is a member of the Anthroposophical Society of Greater Washington DC Branch. She is the founder and ED of Child Justice, Inc., a nonprofit legal services provider for protective parents/guardians in cases of child abuse, IPV in the context of child custody and protective order cases.
Mary Dee Kirchoff was the first Racquetball World Champion (1984). She defeated better players by discovering the power of a positive emotional and spiritual connection. A physical therapist and former games teacher at Emerson Waldorf School in NC, Mary Dee applies lessons from her championship career to promote holistic wellness and mindful embodiment.
Andy Wistreich has practiced Buddhism since 1980. He studied under Geshe Namgyal Wangchen and other Tibetan lamas. He has taught and led retreats at many Dharma centres worldwide, and co-founded the International Kalacakra Network and the Land of Joy retreat centre. A retired educator, Andy now dedicates his life to Dharma, his family and various forms of Dharma Activism.