This page is not related to any specific intentional community. Circle Way Ireland is a network of people sharing the ideas of Native American elder Manitonquat (Medicine Story) for creating a better world through understanding ourselves and each other better and caring for nature. He has written several books explaining the ideology passed on to him by his elders of the Wampanoag tribe and how we can use these tools in modern society to create a new and improved society of linked sustainable communities. The circle is the natural form for everything in the universe. In Circle Way, each member of the circle is equal. We respect each other (however different we may seem), we respect nature and each has equal opportunity to make input. We listen carefully to each other and make every effort to understand what is said without judging. Each must take responsibility for leading according to their skills and knowledge and must in turn support whoever else may be taking the lead. Honesty is paramount so that we can trust each other. Also confidentiality is important so that we can open our hearts to each other without fear. We endeavour to never speak badly of each other in a personal way and we practice non-violent communication. What is seen to be 'bad' (or contrary to the common good) is viewed as a behaviour pattern resulting from previous hurt and fear and must be addressed by helping the person recognise and take ownership of their pattern and find ways to change it. We always endeavour to make decisions by consensus. Time spent doing this is little compared to time spent rectifying work done that turns out to be unnecessary, in a bad location or of poor or unsafe standard due to someone not being listened to or failing to make clear their relevant skills and / or knowledge. If we respect, trust and listen to each other, as Manitonquat often says, together we can achieve anything ! See www.circleway.org
