Talking stick

The talking stick (English: talking stick ) is an Indian cult object, which for centuries was used ritually to promote the culture of dialogue in important meetings and discussions.

Talking stick as a cult object

Is used, for example, a beautiful wooden interior, a decorated ceremonial staff, an ordained bone or a peace pipe. The talking stick is carefully guarded as a cult object and store it in a special place. Guardian of the rod is often the medicine man. The rod is kept in a decorated bag or a box.

Discussions

The Roundtable (English: Council) with talking stick is an Indian- shamanic art. Goal is the design of processes, crises and conflicts, as well as the assessment of laurels in groups and communities. The talking stick circles in the round. Who holds it in his hand, has the full attention of all those present in the circuit. He speaks (and / or silent ) on the essential things, as long as he wants. Then he gives the talking stick on.

The essence of the ritual is not speaking, but the " not to be attention ", which is supported by focusing on the talking stick. This undivided attention is a form of respect for himself, his fellow man, the group and the big picture. The speaker directs his attention inward to track in what at that moment " the essence " is ( contemplation ) and share it with the others. The listener 's attention is directed outward toward the speaker to recognize what is the essence of this man at the moment and what this means for the group and the community.

With the help of this ritual, political and social decisions are made. If everyone involved, " from the heart " talk when everything essential is detected and said, what is also clear is how to do. The decision arises, so to speak "from the circle."

Moderation

The talking stick round makes for a parent interview process. This element is also used as presentation technology application. Here some object (eg a ball ) is placed around the circle in order to allow an orderly conversation.