The Four-Fold Practice as Countercultural
This month, I was part of a beautiful four-day Art of Hosting gathering in Elgin, Ontario facilitated by Jennifer Williams, Cédric Jamet, Chris Corrigan, and Troy Maracle. About thirty of us quickly formed a community; connecting, sharing, and co-creating a well of wisdom, support, and inspired action.
I’m still reflecting on all that I learned and experienced there. One statement that stayed with me came from Chris while he shared the Four-Fold Practice. He said, “This work is countercultural.”
I agree. It counters a culture that over-privileges production, hierarchy, and the myth of leader-as-hero over presence, skillful participation, self-organization, and co-creation.
The Four-Fold Practice invites us to practice:
* Being present and grounded
* Participating meaningfully with others
* Hosting conversations that invite collective wisdom
* Co-creating new knowledge and ways forward
Together, these practices form a cycle that strengthens our capacity to work and learn in community. They support us in times of uncertainty or stuckness; when clear answers are nowhere to be found, and even our questions are still taking shape.
I’m grateful to be part of communities where the countercultural IS the culture. These are the places where our efforts feel most promising, effective, and human.
I look forward to sharing these participatory processes with my clients and community more and more.
Keep exploring
Visit the Art of Hosting website: Art of Hosting | and Harvesting Conversations That Matter
(Image description: Art of Hosting participants standing or sitting on folding chairs in an open space with the Autumn woods in the background, learning together.)
