Thank you so much for welcoming me in.  I look forward to taking part in the discussions and sharing what I learn, with others who I know are deeply and directly interested.

Thanks for the personal welcome!  And al stands for Anita Lois. :)  As for Occupy and this site I would suggest doing some active crosslinking.  People who are actively involved in occupying joining the cafe and also people from the cafe who go to occupations for first-hand conversations.  Try to get a sense of basic messages inherent in the occupation process as well as views that are aired.  As in the medium is the message.  Part of occupation and the working groups and assemblies is developing alternative systems for self-governance which are inclusive and responsive to real needs--therefore direct democracy.  Also deep inclusion and non-oppression, including people who are not always educated and articulate, appreciating the experience and views of people on the margins, questioning all forms of privilege, helping everyone learn the skills of democratic political participation...Building a future from the bottom up while working to tear down current barriers to a full life for everyone.

Wow - I was sure that I had missed the rush to sign on.

I love the site!  and am very excited to be in a position to listen and ask questions of folks I imagine to have ideas that are flying over my  head.  Once those juices get flowing, I  can already feel the empowerment swirling...  Thanks for your persistence in building forums and conduits for constructive, forward living.

I know of them...it's a pretty small community...but I don't believe we've met.  I heard about the cafe from the NCDD website...where I am a "founding" member. I am facilitating a dialogue next week, following up on the Parker Palmer webinar on democracy. Thanks for the welcome.

Hi Ben,

I'm not able to join tomorrow as I'm in an all day meeting, but will be sharing this link with all who are here.  I'd suggest that you share this information as well on the Art of Hosting and Open Space lists too.  I'm planning to join the one on October 31st.

Fond regards and my best wishes for this wonderful venture.....this is truly a "conversation for the 21st century!"

Juanita

Great job, Ben!