Planning Ahead

[Twog]

Hello Transition Whatcom,

 

Paul here...

 

As members of the transition movement, I think it can besaid that we have a good idea of our plan for the future.  The hope is for a rich interdependencewith our local community, a deep appreciation for the natural world and thewisdom to see the beauty in simple things.  As we move towards these goals, we are occasionally blessedwith a clear objective; ride a bike, plant a garden or help a neighbor.  At other times, it can be quitedifficult to place our next step, let alone our route into an uncertainfuture. 

 

Members of the TWIG had a clearly defined task.  It took a lot of hard work andperseverance to build momentum and plan for the Great Unleashing.  This group was blessed with a focalpoint for their collective energy.  As a member of the TWOG, I have to say that the task isslightly different.  Ourresponsibility is to maintain the collective momentum and channel it into acultural revolution.  Energy spenton such broad tasks is at risk of being lost into an undefined field. 

 

Though it may seem overwhelming, we are using the onlyapproach that makes sense; Take this task and organize it into manageablepieces.  This method is tried andtrue, but we have a unique trick, which will pull all of this together into thecultural change that is our ultimate goal.  These pieces, though small at first will build into a largerpattern.  Attending small eventscan become personal habits for individuals. These events may include:

 

Transition Café

Monthly work parties

Workshops & Classes

Work Groups, etc.

 

Larger gatherings will frame these smaller events,showcasing the accomplishments of each group. 

 

Winter SeedSwap

Assembly Meetings

Spring Unleashing

Fall Harvest-fest, etc

 

As the seasons pass, these gatherings will turn into annualoccurrences.  The sum total ofthese activities will generate a rhythm for the year and produce a culturalcycle, which our community will trust and support.

 

Small steps building into larger patterns are a natural wayto confront large challenges.  Tobe certain, it is the same process that created tyrannosaurus, cedar forestsand human society.  It will likelyserve you well as you engage the challenges of your own personaltransition.  Start small.  Attend an event, compost your kitchenwaste, join a work group, ride your bike. Be consistent and create a habit. In time, these new habits will become second nature and you will findyourself moving towards that bigger plan for a more resilient future.  And the whole while you can be certainthat your little pieces are fitting in with a much larger community and a muchlarger plan.