Seeds Sown conversation

           I have been contemplating about the POL cycle and the annual retreats I have been involved with over many years. There are several ongoing themes that are critical components of my understanding of leadership and what I have to bring to my organization and my inner life. I have had four different jobs in my school district since I began the program- that ground is critical.

            I use the language of adaptive leadership in my work. It is an ongoing conversation with my colleagues, and helping us bring mind to the table. It is liberating to be able to let go of a lot of the outcomes that often get an organization into the ditch.

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In my various roles and responsibilities is has been a challenge to find a place for me to be a participant and to focus on my own renewal and learning. POL has been providing this to me for over two years now.  Having returned from my second POLII retreat, the power of the place and the people continues to pay dividends. I want to acknowledge and express my gratitude for those who have given their love, labor and money to the Whidbey Institute so it can provide such grace and nourishment for people striving to make the world better. I am so fortunate to be able to be the recipient this blessing. I look for ways to express this gratitude.

The Whidbey Institute has been a steady force for good in my life over the past 13 years. The first program I attended was Geoff Bellman's workshop for consultants in 1998 or 1999, just as I was launching my practice.  In 2007-2008, I attended Powers of Leadership, and now I return annually for POL II and other programs.  The programs and place have helped me learn how to reflect, connect with my values and vocational calling, and practice gratitude.  Slowing down to reflect deeply has enriched my life and improved my contributions to the common good.

Without reflection and thinking time, we are doomed to repeat our mistakes, as individuals and communities.  Programs like those offered at WI support creativity and allow like-minded people ... (more)

I have just returned from Bioneers at Whidbey Institute.  I feel so inspired by all the great work being done for the planet.  I have attended Bioneers in California for many years.  It was a joy to gather with friends on Whidbey Island, on the land, to convene conversations relevant to us all.  I am so grateful to the organizers of Bioneers at Whidbey Institute

The following was contributed by Jerry Wennstrom.

I began volunteering at Chinook’s Madrona Restaurant in about 1989. The restaurant had a built-in counter that held the cash register. The counter had the overall shape of a display case, with an unfinished plywood facer boar. In the beginning, I imagined what the plywood would look like painted as if it were full of bakery items. Finally, I decided to actually paint it that way.

I came to Whidbey Island with all the worldly possessions in a small backpack and didn’t include art supplies to do it so I decided to go to the local thrift store to see what house paint I might find. I secured enough paint and brushes to begin the painting and once it I had begun, friends supplied me with the rest of ... (more)