Talking Sticks

Once again we can learn a lot from the Native culture. The talking stick is a good example.

When there are issues to be discussed in a group the talking stick can be used as a reminder that the person holding the stick has the floor and that the other members of the group are to allow the stick holder to have his/her say without interruption. Not only that, but the others must listen attentively and really "hear" what the speaker is saying. When the speaker is done, the stick is handed to the next person and the process is repeated.

This can work well in a family when resolving a disagreement, as long as all members respectfully use the talking stick. Talking sticks are not there to enable gripe sessions, they are there to help you state your feelings and opinions so that the others understand where you're coming from.

Board meetings would probably benefit from the use of a talking stick. Really any group meeting from prayer circles, to spiritual meetings, to business meetings could use the talking sticks.

Our sticks are adorned with fur, feathers and crystals. These all have meaning. A note comes with each talking stick describing the materials adorning it.

You can purchase a talking stick at our store, Moonstone Path, in lovely Byron, Ontario. Go to http://www.moonstonepath.com/ for our address or our email address, should you wish to receive further information.