Agreements
(We read these Agreements in every single Circle of Men gathering)
These Agreements are created with the intention that they will evolve and change in order to best serve our group as a whole. These Agreements form the safety and stability of the group. Every member of our group is responsible for upholding them at all times. These are cornerstones for our group, these are the structures a powerful group is built on. With the consent of the group you can amend, add to, or edit these Agreements, but regardless they are our foundation.
Responsibility to Self
I take care of myself physically and mentally so I can be fully present with the group.
I will keep everything discussed or revealed in the group completely confidential.
I agree that our time together is not counseling or therapy. If I am engaged in therapy or counseling I am encouraged to disclose it to the group. If I am engaged in therapy I am encouraged to speak about the group with my therapist or counselor.
I will not be violent. Neither aggressive nor passive-aggressive bullying is not acceptable here. This is a space where people can learn how to challenge, or disagree with another person, clearly, honestly, honorably, gracefully, and with respect.
If there is any reason to believe that I may be of harm to myself or others, I am required to share this with the group.
Responsibility to Others
I agree to be on time.
I will not dominate the conversation in order to allow other members to share their feelings and thoughts.
I will respect, welcome, honor, and be open to the wide range of Emotions* that are verbalized and even at times non-verbalized. I will verbalize how I am feeling [specific emotions] and where do I feel that in my body, or what's going on in my physical body now? Our emotions are not our enemies, they can serve as our friends and teachers. (*such as: gratitude, thankfulness, anger, sadness, fear, depressed, shame, guilt, disgust, embarrassed, hurt, joy, happy, contentment, anxious, disappointed, confusion, interest, joy, nostalgia, relief, calmness, boredom, satisfaction, fun, humor, laughter, etc)
I agree to do regular work (personal growth) outside of the group, challenging myself and my brothers to push themselves outside of the group and be accountable.
I will use my time, energy and resources for this positive brotherhood community, without neglecting my own personal commitments.
Responsibility to Sacred Space
I will respect, honor and follow our Purpose & Mission, Our Agreements, Our Ground Rules, Our Shared Values, The Four Intentions, Our Principles & Guidelines on Sharing.
I am responsible for creating an environment of safety and respect for every man in the group. This is a sacred safe space of non-judgemental, non-shaming nor non-abusive, but instead strive to communicate civility, compassionate listening, supportive, empathy, love, understanding, honor, truth, acceptance, encouragement and challenge.
I will not engage in political or religious discussions or argumentation within this group.
I will honor myself and my group by not coming to the group under the influence of any mood altering recreational substance, including drugs and alcohol.
I agree to attend this group for an initial four gatherings.
I will financially support this positive brotherhood community with our suggested donation of $5.00 or more whenever possible, at each gathering.
If I need to miss a gathering, protocol is to call at least two members of the group until I speak to one man at least. If no one answers after calling two men, a message may be left, or text a message.
I agree to contribute information and content to the group, which serve every man and adds value to individual learning and growth.
I agree to keep the gathering space in better shape than I found it.
If I decide to leave the group, I agree to show up at a gathering and state my needs and what’s not working out of respect for everyone.