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Writer's pictureBrad Hutchinson

SIMPLE Dynamics of Personal and Social Transformation

Updated: Jan 13


The Way

Waywaymegwun, 2005


The Symbiotic Relationship of Personal and Social Transformation


In the process of personal transformation, our existing identity undergoes a significant shift, giving way to a newly and integrated experience of self. This renewed way of being is marked by increased integration, resourcefulness, and alignment with intrinsic motivations and inherent values. In turn, our paths become clearer, less fraught with fear. In this ever-evolving transformative process, others notice these changes in our grounded presence, actions, and enhanced ability to respond to circumstances mindfully.  


Dynamic Balance processes foster inner equilibrium in this iterative cycle that deepens with continued engagement in transformation. That is, staying grounded as the old identity sheds away, allowing the emergence of the new self once again. Embracing a holistic approach, personal transformative is inextricably linked to progressive social change as it distinguishes itself from conventional practices by emphasizing enduring personal, organizational, and social systemic change—"deep change"—that cannot be easily ungrounded.


It's important to note that transformation of this kind can give rise to fear. The space between the old and new self engenders a choice between the known and the unknown. Staying stuck or moving forward. Regular mindfulness practices are paramount help to quell the charge of fear as paradigms shift and possibilities open.


Rooted in Analysis of Oppression


In the pursuit of meaningful change, it's crucial that the methods and philosophy of transformation find their roots in an explicit analysis of oppression. Not only in unjust systems and social structures that oppress, but also within personal relationships, including the home. This requires a keen examination of power dynamics, recognizing and challenging any power-over dynamics that may hinder harmony within these intimate spaces.


This transformative work draws from ancient wisdom, lineages, and historical insights and adds a nuanced perspective to addressing oppression. It's about more than just acknowledging and healing from the past; it's actively leveraging the collective wisdom of history to navigate the complexities of a contemporary world in a state of accelerating change. This ongoing process signifies not only a reflection on historical lessons but also an evolution into a new, more coherent phase that propels us towards creating healthier, more equitable dynamics within our social structures, personal lives, and homes.


This isn't a static process; it's dynamic and forward-moving. By appreciating the lessons of history and understanding that we're evolving into a more unified and purposeful state, we can effectively drive positive change. The philosophy of transformation bridges ancient insights with a contemporary vision, propelling us towards a more coherent and impactful future.


Meaning Making (Mezirow)


"Transformation is a process whereby we move over time to reformulate our structures for making meaning, usually through reconstructing dominant narratives or stories. This provides us with a more dependable way to make meaning within our lives, since we are questioning our own points of view, looking and reflecting on alternate points of view and often creating a new, more reliable and meaningful way of knowing that may be different from our old habits of the mind. This requires us to become open to others’ points of view, and to be able to reflect on new points of view and information and often go back and reconstruct what we know and how we know it.” (Jack Mezirow, 2000).


Deep Shift


Transformative learning involves experiencing a deep, structural shift in the basic premises of thought, feelings, and actions. It is a shift of consciousness that alters our way of being in the world. Such a shift involves our understanding of ourselves and our self-locations; our relationships with other humans and with the natural world; our understanding of relations of power in interlocking structures of class, race and gender; our body awareness, our visions of alternative approaches to living; and our sense of possibilities for social justice and peace and personal joy.

 



As One

Together in life they pray. It is within the Sweat Lodge that they call upon the spirits of each doorway, and as those spirits near the energy around them stir. As the Grandfathers (hot rocks) sit in the pit in front of them they share their breath/words of life with them. They are the Seven Grandfathers also known as the seven prophecies of life. To the East they ask the Great Eagle to carry their thoughts and prayers up to the Creator. They ask that those who have passed on and who have carved this path of life to be remembered, as well to look out for those to come, our future generations. It is that balance they search for, for they know to pray first for those least fortunate, sick and weak. Together they heal and it is within this womb their hearts come together as one. It is the power that surrounds them, that protects them, guides them but yet teaches us to how strong the elements of life can be.

-Waywaymegwun

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