The fundamental question that has been lurking in my mind is how do these new ideas of living together work in practice? Specifically, how are decisions made, and by whom? Mutual aid is based upon the rejection of hierarchical models. LANKBACK is about centering Indigenous leadership. Abolition is about changing from police and prisons to community care and safety.
Quakers believe the Spirit continues to guide us today. Our faith is dynamic, not static. Our form of worship is to gather together in silence for about an hour on Sunday morning, listening for what is sometimes called “that still, small voice” of the Spirit to guide us. Also fundamental to our spiritual practice is to try to be continually aware of the Spirit in every living moment.
As my research into the concepts of the economic draft, active objection, the NewCO (new conscientious objector) and resilience hubs have evolved, I’ve struggled to find ways to bring spirituality into those concepts, because I believe spirituality must be the foundation that they are based upon.
As shown in the following mind map, a Spiritual Foundation is part of the NewCO (New Conscientious Objector). This branches to Inner Light or Intersection with Indigenous Practices.
I believe our Quaker spiritual practices are uniquely positioned as a format for spiritual seeking and guidance for everyone, or at least for those who are not Indigenous. Even for those who profess to not have a faith tradition (referred to as tacit knowledge).
What little I know about Indigenous spiritual practices seems to indicate enough similarities that I could see spiritual gatherings of Indigenous, and non-native people who do or do not have a faith tradition, gathering together in a circle, in silence. [NOTE: I’ve been delving more into this research and will share what others have written and done related to these combined spiritual practices].
