We open this newsletter with link to a new video of Joanna Macy, in a Q and A with Jem Bendell of Deep Adaptation Forum. I am inspired by her fresh articulation, and heartened to see that Joanna, at age 90, continues to contribute her vibrant thinking and leadership. Watch here.

Interhelp’s second Community Practice Day was hosted by our “Tending and Mending the Social Web” action circle in April. We practiced being “upstanders,” rather than bystanders, when we see disrespect or any other form of harm happening to people, whether in workshops, public spaces, or even in our private lives. Sarah Pirtle guided us through a 4-step process in which each action step was supported by inner reflection, discernment, and self-compassion. (Practice Day participants in photo)

Sarah’s Stepping Up worksheet is a guide through this process. I encourage you to give it a good read, and perhaps print it out. Refer to it as you prepare for events, or simply for ongoing support as you step with more courage snd love into social spaces. This work of tending and mending the web of social relations is work I feel we must all participate in.

A hearty thank you to each of you who contributed to our fundraising effort for Earth Leadership Cohort V participant scholarships. Total raised: $5820! The cohort meets in September, October and November. It will be a pleasure to bring you cohort news and reports!

Please see below for upcoming events.

We shall be known by the company we keep,
by the ones who circle round to tend these fires… (MaMuse)

Thank you for keeping company with us at Interhelp, as we tend the fires of healing and change together.

Paula Hendrick
Interhelp Editor

Registration is now open for Interhelp’s Annual Fall Workshop!
October 25-27, 2019
Woolman Hill, Deerfield MA
Earth Leadership Community members will design and guide the program. More information and registration here.

Songs for the Healing of Our World: A day of singing for song leaders
Saturday, August 17, 2019
Marlboro, Vermont
Led by Anne Goodwin and Kirstin Edelglass
Learn more here.

Active Hope: An introduction to the Work That Reconnects
Saturday, September 28, 9:00-4:00, 2019
First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church, Cambridge, MA
Learn more and register here.