The Magical Forest®
Each time we interact we have an opportunity to learn more about each other and ourselves. When we learn to embrace the dynamic and nuanced diversity within each of us, we begin to understand that our search for common ground starts with how we tell our own story.
One of the methods I’ve developed to help my clients begin to image what is possible when we engage across difference is a conceptual framework I call The Magical Forest®. I use the lens of the magical forest to recast members of the community in question as curious forest creatures engaged in a variety of unique and peculiar dances — each of which have taken a lifetime to perfect.
Since the nuance of each dance is often lost on the casual observer or novice, my clients and I, literally and figuratively, wander through the community — The Magical Forest — to gain insight into why some forest creatures seem so quick to dismiss the dances of other forest creatures. It is my belief that this metaphor for making sense of our communities offers us the nuanced insight and perspective we need to build systems and structures that are responsive to the ever evolving and shifting demands of our communities.