Thinking together—not alike
By Mark Johaningsmeir
The Friends of IONS community group in San Miguel has just passed its first birthday.
Community Discussion Group Friends of IONS Community Group Mon, Feb 24, 3:30–5pm JC3 (the Jewish Cultural & Community Center) Calle de las Moras 47 At the corner with Calle Cinco de Mayo Facilitators: Judith Jenya & Mark Johaningsmeir 50 pesos
IONS an acronym for the “Institute of Noetic Sciences.” It had its origin when NASA Apollo astronaut Edgar Mitchell returned from his walk on the moon, and during his return to earth he was struck that all his training in engineering and science had not prepared him for an experience of awakening and transcendence. He gathered some thoughtful people who had different professional backgrounds for conversations on meaning, purpose, consciousness and transformation.
For more than 40 years IONS has been committed to bringing together the different disciplines of science and engineering, psychology, philosophy and spirituality. IONS engages in research, publishing and gatherings where new research and discoveries are presented. There are community discussion groups like the Friends of IONS-SMA which meet all over the world.
This community group is in a continual process of creating and adapting what the group will become. There is no membership or pressure to attend. Come when you are able and when you are interested in engaging in dialogue.
Some core principles for dialogue in Friends of IONS groups:
• Speak from your heart.
• Listen from your heart.
• Create a safe space for discussion and learning.
• The participants influence the process.
• Be open to surprises and possibilities.
• Allow for silence.
• Have fun, be flexible.
IONS Vision:
Our vision is to help birth a new worldview that recognizes our basic inter-connectedness and inter-dependence and promotes the flourishing of life in all its magnificent forms.
