Tier 1 - The Contemplative Path

What to Expect in the Contemplative Path Program

(1) We use a variety contemplative practices best suited for you to facilitate personal discovery, healing, resilience, and active hope.  

(2) We create a network of mutual support among other young people with a common vision engaging in these practices. 

(3) We help you to investigate and align with local community projects based on your interests, passions, and strengths. 

Each week, we provide online videos and activities. Also, we read and discuss the book Active Hope by Joanna Macy and Chris Johnstone, as well as other articles and podcasts. We meet with you weekly one-on-one and with the whole group every-other week. 

Week 1: Self-reflection: Who Am I? How Do I Spend My Time? Which Contemplative Practice(s) is/are Right for Me? (Active Hope Introduction)

Week 2: Becoming a Part of the Great Turning and Cultivating Active Hope (Active Hope Chapters 1-2) 

· All Team Meet-Up #1: Connecting to Ourselves and to Others; Council Circle

Week 3: Expressing Gratitude (Chapter 3)

Week 4: Liberation Through Honoring Our Pain and Anger (Chapter 4)

· All Team Meet-Up #2: Gratitude and “Taking Refuge” Guided Practices; Dialogue in Small Groups

Week 5: Finding Our Personal Power (Chapters 5-6)

Week 6: Developing a Wider Sense of Self in Community (Chapters 7-8)

· All Team Meet-Up #3: Gaining a Larger Sense of Time Guided Meditation; “What Empowers Me?” Dialogue in Small Groups

Week 7: Envisioning a More Just and Sustainable World (Chapters 9-10)

Week 8: Going Forth with a Vision: Building Resiliency and Support (Chapters 11-13)

· All Team Meet-Up #4: Maintaining Community and Mutual Support; Identifying our Individual and Collective Visions; Council Circle