During the Occupy National Gathering in Philadelphia last week, I explored what might be different now from past movements for change—and what might yet be needed.
12-2p PDT | 3-5p EDT | 7-9p GMT
Not in terms of content, specific initiatives or "problems" that need solving, but in terms of attitude, consciousness and quality of relationship within and among individuals, groups, societal structures and, no less than, the entire gestalt of life on Earth.
I listened to an array of impassioned talks and speeches from NatGat organizers and speakers, tuning in each time, to the response of the crowd. I listened for signals and markers that might indicate how well we are progressing toward awakening a new paradigm of human relationship.
I listened for tones of victimization vs. empowerment, hostility vs. understanding, rebelliousness vs. constructive inquiry. All of these characteristics have their value, though some indicate more constructive possibility while others demonstrate old, failing strategies.
Explore to what degree are we individually and collectively occupying core change...and why it matters in order for #Occupy to be different from movements of the past...if, indeed, it is.
