How to Direct the Fields of Conversation

Field 1 – Politeness

Stuck in "terminal niceness," where language and demeanor remain polite but lack depth. Differences are kept hidden, creating a sense of awkwardness and falseness. The turning point is the "Crisis of Emptiness," signaling a need for change.

Field 2 – Breakdown

Driven by fear, impatience, and disbelief, individuals unleash their true beliefs, taking opposing positions. Politeness is abandoned, and relationships become strained. The "Crisis of Chaos" emerges when the conversation seems to be going nowhere.

Field 3 – Presencing

Key to elevating the conversation, presencing involves mindfulness and suspending certainty. Understanding the driving factors behind reactions and letting go of automatic patterns. The "Crisis of Thinking" occurs when certainty is not suspended.

Field 4 – Inquiry

Characterized by real curiosity about the other's position, inquiry evaluates the conversation process and promotes safety. Openness to "outsight" learning from others and thoughtful, reflective silence. The "Crisis of Fragmentation" prompts inquiry into shared aspects rather than differences.

Field 5 – Connecting

Koinonia, a state of fellowship or brotherhood, emerges as both parties address the crisis of parts by seeing the whole picture together. An experience of "flow" or "collective flow" occurs, speaking and interacting in a common pool of meaning. The acknowledgment that something special has been created, understanding that the world may not fully grasp it.