The lab day in Beit Shemesh transitioned between discussing the country’s turbulent current affairs and dealing with the initiatives, between despair and hope, between expressing and airing feelings, and empathetic listening, which is also generative. In between discussions and advancing the initiatives we met with Co.Lab graduates who live in Beit Shemesh to hear a bit about the city’s uniqueness and challenges.
Once again, the process and processing continue on the way home and into the night, when we are alone, and the members write and share with the group:
“I left our session today with the understanding that I have friends who are experiencing much pain. Through the conversation, the sharing, the guidance of the compassionate conversation, I could step out of the “right” position and see the pain and concern. Thanks for being a fantastic group, and hugs to everyone”
“I would also like to thank everyone for the inclusive discourse and the opportunity to listen to diverse voices, opinions, pain, concerns, and fears”
“In the interim conversations after our “check-in,” it became clear to me that we are all much closer in opinion than it seems and even agree on most things. I wish the storm would pass. May the conversation continue, and may peace and tranquility return to the streets.”
