convergence - Blog - SCOCO Network2024-03-28T13:57:50Zhttps://sustainablecoco.ning.com/profiles/blogs/feed/tag/convergenceThe Permaculture News Hour Commentary by Willi Paul Planetshifter.com Magazinehttps://sustainablecoco.ning.com/profiles/blogs/the-permaculture-news-hour-commentary-by-willi-paul-planetshifter2014-08-01T17:59:07.000Z2014-08-01T17:59:07.000ZWilli Paulhttps://sustainablecoco.ning.com/members/WilliPaul<div><p style="text-align:center;"><span class="font-size-7"><a href="http://www.planetshifter.com/node/2201" target="_blank"><img width="503" src="" class="align-center" alt="" /></a></span></p><p style="text-align:center;"></p><p style="text-align:center;"></p><p style="text-align:center;"><span class="font-size-7"><a href="http://www.planetshifter.com/node/2201" target="_blank">The Permaculture News Hour</a></span></p><p style="text-align:center;"><span class="font-size-7">Commentary by Willi Paul</span></p><p style="text-align:center;"><span class="font-size-7">Planetshifter.com Magazine</span></p></div>Interview with Koreen Brennan, Co-Organizer: 2014 North American Permaculture Convergence. Harmony Park, Clarks Grove, MN, 8/29 – 31, 2014. By Willi Paul, Planetshifter.com Magazinehttps://sustainablecoco.ning.com/profiles/blogs/interview-with-koreen-brennan-co-organizer-2014-north-american2014-07-25T20:00:00.000Z2014-07-25T20:00:00.000ZWilli Paulhttps://sustainablecoco.ning.com/members/WilliPaul<div><div class="field field-type-image field-field-image"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item odd"><a href="http://planetshifter.com/node/2199" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.planetshifter.com/uploads/imagecache/standard/centerspace_83.png?width=505" width="436" class="align-center" height="660" alt="centerspace_83.png?width=505" /></a></div></div></div><p></p><p></p><p><span class="font-size-4"><strong>Interview with Koreen Brennan, Co-Organizer: 2014 <a href="http://northamericanpermaculture.org/">North American Permaculture Convergence</a>. Harmony Park, Clarks Grove, MN, 8/29 – 31, 2014. By Willi Paul, <a href="http://planetshifter.com/node/2199">Planetshifter.com Magazine</a></strong></span></p><p></p><p>“<a href="http://northamericanpermaculture.org/">North American Permaculture Convergence</a> (NAPC) as an egalitarian community. We view the NAPC event as a gathering of the tribe. A meeting of a peer group. We value everyone’s input and participation. Come because you are excited about participating. Everyone has something to share. We are all part of the permaculture community. Gatherings and festivals are one of the most important parts of being human. Particularly when it is a gathering of your own “culture” or subculture. You feel safe there and belong. People from the same profession getting together is inspiring, empowering and offers a way to exchange information and make connections that can never be achieved via internet or technology.”</p><p>* * * * * * *</p><p><strong>Interview with Koreen by Willi</strong></p><p><strong>Can the earth be a keystone species?</strong></p><p>Interesting question. Viewed as an organism, the earth has the ability to create balance in its ecosystems and that is a core role played by keystone species; there are self-correcting mechanisms built in to her systems that we as a race appear to be far from understanding. The capacity of the earth to heal damage is quite stunning. How far that can go, in spite of the abuse being heaped upon her, is a question that has not yet been answered. We have seen where some of her limitations lie in areas of desertification that aren't recovering without assistance, dead lakes, etc. When thinking about keystone species, the questions that arise for me are: How can we, as a race, become more of a keystone species ourselves - facilitating balance instead of destroying it? What can we, as designers of systems, do to bring this about?</p><p><strong>How is permaculture a “healing force?” Are these spiritual in nature? Any examples to share?</strong></p><p>Good permaculture design facilitates the healing of damage that nature has not been able to heal on its own. It makes sense that if we have the knowledge of how to help the earth regenerate that we should use that.</p><p>We all have our own criteria for what we consider spiritual. Certainly there are phenomena in the healing areas that are not fully explained by the material sciences. I think that many of us have worked with plants that responded positively to love and attention in spite of lack of water, nutrition, or sunlight, as one example. I think a great question to ask at the convergence and elsewhere would be, "How can we increase our capacity to heal, as individuals, and as a movement?" I have my own feelings about that, others have their own feelings. Together, we can perhaps come up with answers that are greater than the sum of parts. That act would fit my personal definition of something that is spiritual.</p><p>This type of work is best done in person, which is one reason why I feel that convergences are important. There are connections that are created when we meet together, that are difficult to replicate long distance but that can be carried forward from that initial meeting.</p><p>We are striving to create frameworks that will support the work of taking these deeper conversations somewhere useful. One thing the convergence is offering is facilitation and space to form working groups. Michael Pilarski can be contacted by anyone interested in forming a working group on any topic. (friendsofthetrees at yahoo). We will also have roundtables. If anyone wants to facilitate a roundtable, please apply on our web site under "presentations."</p><p><strong>Time has speeded up substantially since the 1960's. How can you help people make better observations in this ecosystem?</strong></p><p>That is an amazing question! Thank you for being observant and thoughtful enough to ask it.</p><p>Internally, our own movement is expanding exponentially and we can either be thoughtful and observe the patterns, or we can experience the patterns of expansion without observation or thoughtful design. We are moving to the next stage of succession. What stage are we in? Where are we going? How will we get there? This subject is shaping up to be a major point of discussion at the convergence, from a number of angles. For instance, the Permaculture Institute of North America will present some design proposals on this topic.</p><p>I think we can increase our observational capacity if we work together more closely. The first step to doing so may be to talk to each other. And share data - this includes regional site assessment information, successful actions, potential points of collaboration. Some areas are doing that more than others and we can learn from one another. Cultural acceleration can feel overwhelming. It can be less so with cooperation. I believe that those movements that are taking the time to create strong collaborative/mutually beneficial systems are more likely to flourish over time.</p><p>We can also be smart about what we are spending our time observing - in this world of information overload, one can get distracted by the weed seeds blowing by and not notice the condition of the soil at all (as a metaphor).</p><p>Many of us are doing some great observation at a local or regional level, but there are trends that are occurring on broader levels as well, and those are energies in the system. Depending on your situation, to ignore them could be analogous to ignoring what's going on upstream on the Mississippi and only paying attention to the part of it you can see, if you have a farm on its banks. That can be a good way to get blindsided.</p><p>Some permaculture designers are doing some incredible things at local levels that are never heard of by the larger community. How can we increase our capacity to share successful actions? Some people feel that we should stick to our regional areas, but no other major movement on the planet is doing that. Activists are cooperating with each other on deeper levels and across issues, corporations and even governments are doing so. But many of our economic and social models are almost completely isolated to the level of one or two person organizations. How can we apply permaculture design principles to our movement, as a whole? What opportunities are there to integrate, not segregate? Sharing successful actions doesn't mean we have to lose or weaken our local identities or networks, especially if integration on larger levels is approached from the viewpoint of strengthening local networks.</p><p>The systems that we are dealing with have leverage points at state, national or international levels in a number of cases. We need to understand the macro patterns, in order to design effectively. Not everybody wants to do that, but some of us need to.</p><p>And finally, observing the acceleration of tech, of communications, of culture, I feel that the main thing that is missing is ethics. What if permaculture ethics were at the heart of every major decision making process? That is a beautiful vision. It's also a leverage point, something we can focus on as a body, and we can work toward getting our fellow humans to see the advantages of such a viewpoint. I'm encouraged by the growing number of people outside of our movement who also see the importance of including people care, earth care and being wise about the use of surplus in the conversation.</p><p><strong>What are some of the <a href="http://www.planetshifter.com/node/2194">common symbols in permaculture?</a></strong></p><p>Mollison's egg, and Holmgren's 12 principles and permaculture flower stand out for me as icons.</p><p><strong>Is permaculture for the rich?</strong></p><p>It is a people's practice that can be used by anyone regardless of circumstance. I have a project at Pine Ridge reservation and have worked in Haiti - two of the poorest areas in the western hemisphere. We have used the waste stream in both places to improve conditions and opportunities. I believe we can do more to make permaculture more broadly accessible regardless of income level, and to reach out to include a broader diversity of people. This is one issue that will be discussed at the convergence.</p><p>I feel that social and economic injustices can be very effectively addressed by permaculture.<br /> There are historical patterns, institutional patterns and other aspects that may not be obvious or easily understood, but nevertheless, affect energy distribution substantially. Designs can fail when these are not fully taken into account.</p><p>I personally know very few wealthy people who have taken an interest in permaculture. The rich may have the capacity to do more damage because of the energy (money, land, etc) that they control, but also could accomplish much good, by how they use their funds and assets. There are some large cattle ranchers who are using Holistic Management to heal their ecosystems and watersheds, and this is a positive trend. There is an ethical investors movement that is a relatively new energy in the system. The jury is still out as to how well these trends will work over time. We need better methods of linking available assets (land, finance) to worthy projects.</p><p><strong>Are you advocating a return to older values / times as much as well as a shift forward to new ones? Can you offer examples of both?</strong></p><p>Yes, both, absolutely! We have a history in our movement that many newer designers are not aware of. Michael Pilarski, one of the core organizers of the convergence and a 30+ year veteran permaculture designer, is collating a history of the movement in the US. He has formed a working group on that topic. Other elders will speak about where have we come from? What is the framework on which this movement has been built? How can we honor the workability of that framework, be conscious of it, and best utilize it to carry us forward?</p><p>Elders councils are cultural models that have stood the test of time over thousands of years. Scott Pittman has proposed a meeting of elders at this convergence and many North American elders are attending.</p><p>Older values are important in a larger sense too - there is much indigenous knowledge that we have lost touch with as a culture that is really vital to our survival. It's important to keep in touch with our roots and to understand them.</p><p>On the other hand, within our movement, we have some bright, creative younger energy in our ranks. How can this energy be integrated for maximum benefit for all concerned? How can we be optimally resilient and respond with intelligent design to our own succession process? How can we find an optimum balance between this new energy, and the fresh viewpoints that it brings, and the knowledge and experience of elders?</p><p>In field work and design, many designers stay current with cutting edge soil science, as well as scientific developments in regard to the built environment, energy, etc. The convergence will host activities regarding scientific research in the permaculture movement to facilitate that energy.</p><p>The lessons from history and the experience viewpoint of elders can help us make the best decisions about the issues we are facing and we all can learn valuable lessons from fresh viewpoints. How can we integrate these aspects better?</p><p><strong>Are there different regional or international practices in permaculture that folks need to understand?</strong></p><p>Every region has its unique culture, and unique needs and resources. So yes, there are differences. There is a lot of cultural diversity within many regions as well. I say,"Vive le difference!"</p><p>Let's embrace the diversity, and welcome it as something that is healthy for the system, rather than resisting it. What do we really need to agree on? I would say that we need to agree to use what works, not what doesn't, and to keep observing to make sure we notice when it's not working. Beyond that? Let's discuss!</p><p><strong>How is the Convergence an example of localization?</strong></p><p>The Convergence is already starting to strengthen beneficial connections in the Midwest regions, and we will have a bioregional breakout session, but beyond that, I don't know that it is a good example. And that is where I may differ from how some permaculturists see things.</p><p>I clearly see the benefits of localization and do many things to forward that concept in my personal and professional life. But I also think there is a time when we need to gather together in a larger group and look at the big picture - from pattern to detail, right? Macro to micro. There is a balance. Some indigenous tribes had major meetings and gatherings across tribal lines to address issues common to all of them or concerning all of them. Out of those meetings (like the Iroquois Confederacy) came some of the most brilliant structures and decisions ever. That is one role I feel that the North American Permaculture Convergence could play.</p><p>We're mindful of the ecological footprint of people getting there, we're working to reduce that, and we're designing the event with the end goal that it will be maximally beneficial, productive and useful to people. I.e., Worth It. In order to ensure we achieve that, we have been soliciting feedback and co-creative input, and we continue to do so.</p><p><strong>I am a producing <a href="http://www.planetshifter.com/node/2195">kids media</a>. Is there enough material out there to help kids grow up with permaculture?</strong></p><p>That is great! I'm excited to hear that, Willi! That can be a real paradigm shifting niche - looking forward to seeing what you create. Kids' response to permaculture is so amazing. I am not aware of all the material that may exist, but I think it's a pretty safe bet that there is plenty of room for more quality material - we are far from the point of saturation.</p><p>The convergence is partnering with a pre-event training workshop specifically for teachers of children, where some of the material that does exist will be shared. There is a growing body of teachers bringing permaculture to kids, and the workshop will share some of the successful actions. A number of convergence attendees are interested in this topic, and there may be sessions on it.</p><p><strong>What are your permaculture strategies when combating climate change? Do they relate to the ethics and principles?</strong></p><p>I think that permaculture ethics are one of the most brilliant aspects of permaculture and alone have the potential to create major change. Education and raising awareness are key, ethics are key, and the principles applied are what will enable real mitigation of any and all ecological damage we are doing to this planet. All of them together create a powerful package. I have generally seen people respond with a lot of willingness and understanding when they are educated about how ecosystems work and given tools they can use to remedy the damage. When they don't have the tools, when they don't understand the interrelationships, it's harder to have the discussion.</p><p>For me, it is helpful to look at climate change in a whole systems context. Because permaculture addresses whole systems, it is often the case that the same remedies that address water depletion, soil depletion, pollution, and other environmental degradation also address atmospheric imbalances. Again, let's integrate these things. We need to stop abusing the earth. This is a sensible viewpoint. When people see that there are tools to do so and that they can use them, they become a lot more interested.</p><p>Some people think that the tipping point has passed and we cannot avoid experiencing an ecological meltdown, some think we still have time to turn things around. I don't engage in those arguments. I believe that regardless of which extreme it is or if things fall somewhere in between those extremes, we have an obligation to spread a viewpoint of ethical living and to provide knowledge of how to use the tools that better enable people to live that way - as widely and as deeply as possible, and that is where I try to stay focused.</p><p><strong>Do you agree that permaculture and Transition could benefit from new (formalized) <a href="http://www.planetshifter.com/node/2043">celebrations, annual events and holidays</a>?</strong></p><p>Sure - I think it could help in a number of ways. Maybe that's something that could be proposed at the convergence, by a working group or roundtable.</p><p>And by the way, people can start linking up with working groups now. Don't feel you have to wait until the convergence. The convergence will be a time to cross pollinate across regions, to meet face to face and create deeper relationships, to be introduced to what people are working on, to learn from each other, to meet new people, to celebrate. The longer term work will be done to some degree before and especially after the convergence. We are striving to look at how this energy can best be captured, and to be thoughtful designers with it. There is only so much that can be accomplished in three days.</p><p>This is one purpose of our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/napermacultureconvergence/">Facebook group</a>, to allow discussions to start now (and there are some occurring there).</p><p><strong>Is the Convergence an incubator? A teaching space?</strong></p><p>Both! It's a gathering of professionals, but it is also open to new designers and to people without design certificates as well who have been using or studying permaculture. We are striving to apply the principle of integrate, don't segregate and to design the convergence to offer something meaningful for just about everyone. This is your convergence. What is most important to you? We have been listening, and will continue to do so.</p><p>We will have a number of experienced presenters there and many learning opportunities such as designer showcase (where people can display their designs and discuss). We will have hands on activities.</p><p>But we will also have working groups, roundtables, facilitated networking areas, a Tea Room and other activities that will enable people to make valuable connections and actually get some work done, or just enjoy each other's company. We are hoping this venue will serve as a catalyst or jumping off point for many wonderful future relationships and happenings in the movement!</p><p>To stay updated on activities, plans, speakers, etc, please sign up for our <a href="http://northamericanpermaculture.org/">newsletter</a>.</p><p>Thank you for the opportunity to be interviewed, Willi. You offered many thought provoking questions! We hope to see you and many others at the Convergence at the end of August!</p><p>* * * * * * *</p><p><strong>Koreen’s Bio -</strong></p><p>Koreen has extensive experience in both permaculture design and in education. She has been active in alternative education for 20 years and has taught permaculture design in Miami, Los Angeles, Tampa Bay, Sarasota, Pine Ridge Lakota reservation, Gulf Coast University, Cuba and Tuskegee University. She is a passionate speaker, and has given hundreds of hours of lectures on permaculture. She has founded, owned and run permaculture nurseries and a design and education business.</p><p>Koreen has a wide range of experience and expertise, from administering and organizing major projects and events, to nature awareness, to conflict resolution so finds herself taking on diverse projects at times. She organized permaculture style disaster relief for thousands of Haitians living in camps after the earthquake in 2010, has planted thousands of trees in different locations in the US, and is currently co-organizing the North American Permaculture Convergence and a major natural building project at Pine Ridge reservation. She has advised on public projects at schools, universities and on the Florida House "Green Home" project in Sarasota. She strongly believes in the power of community and cooperation, and enjoys collaborating with others on projects, teaching and design work.</p><p><strong>Connections –</strong></p><p>North American Permaculture Convergence<br /> Harmony Park, Clarks Grove, MN, 8/29 – 31, 2014<br /> Info at northamericanpermaculture.org<br /> <a href="http://www.northamericanpermaculture.org/">North American Permaculture Convergence</a></p><p><strong>Koreen Brennan</strong><br /> Director, Permaculture Design and Education, Quality Control<br /> <a href="http://www.growpermaculture.com/">Grow Permaculture</a><br /> Koreen at growpermaculture.com<br /> 727-495-6145</p><p><strong>Willi Paul</strong><br /> New Mythologist & Transition Entrepreneur<br /> <a href="http://www.newmythologist.com/">newmythologist.com</a> | <a href="http://www.planetshifter.com/">PlanetShifter.com Magazine</a> | <a href="http://www.openmythsource.com/">openmythsource.com</a><br /> @planetshifter @openmythsource @PermacultureXch<br /> 415-407-4688 | pscompub at gmail.com</p></div>“The New Farm Convergence, Year 1.0” - New Myth #52 / Myth Lab #11. Paintings by Wisconsinite Laverne Kammerude as Artifact. By Willi Paul, NewMythologist.comhttps://sustainablecoco.ning.com/profiles/blogs/the-new-farm-convergence-year-1-0-new-myth-52-myth-lab-112014-04-12T16:00:00.000Z2014-04-12T16:00:00.000ZWilli Paulhttps://sustainablecoco.ning.com/members/WilliPaul<div><p></p><div class="field field-type-image field-field-image"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item odd"><img src="http://www.planetshifter.com/uploads/imagecache/standard/COMBINED-497_1.png" alt="" title="" height="1200" width="489" class="align-center" /></div></div></div><p><span class="font-size-3"><strong>“<a href="http://www.planetshifter.com/node/2176">The New Farm Convergence, Year 1.0”</a> - New Myth #52 / Myth Lab #11. Paintings by Wisconsinite Laverne Kammerude as Artifact. By Willi Paul, <a href="http://newmythologist.com/">NewMythologist.com</a></strong></span></p><p></p><p>* * * * * * *</p><p></p><p><span class="font-size-5"><strong>“The New Farm Convergence, Year 1.0”</strong></span></p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Myth Lab #11 follows</strong></p><p></p><p>Venoco’s fracking well collapse and deep earth “volcanic erupt-release” in Fairfield, CA in 2033 left the planet with a dinosauric-killing carbon load unforeseen in human history, temperatures world-wide rose 12 degrees in six weeks and the coasts climbed 13”.</p><p></p><p><strong>Cooked Earth.</strong></p><p></p><p></p><p>Community as they knew it was gone: Main Streets became abandoned for better air and garden plots in nearby mountains. Security from hastily formed neighboring Tribes suddenly was the issue. How can folks see their seeds through to harvest when unprepared hoards are stealing the local greens?</p><p></p><p>* * * * * * *</p><p></p><p>“That woman with the dogs and kid came by again yesterday. I gave her some dried meat and roots.”</p><p></p><p>“She will be back with more folks - more than we can help at this point.”</p><p></p><p>“I told her about the upcoming Multi-Tribal Convergence in Susanville but her agenda is obviously tilted toward hunger pains.”</p><p></p><p></p><p>* * * * * * *</p><p></p><p>The plan for the Tribe Network is to occupy and share abandoned homesteads in the Northwest. They have a preliminary map of these farmsteads but no on the ground intelligence.</p><p></p><p>But is the well water drinkable? Is there a viable aquifer? Any roofs on the old barns out there still? Wild animals to tame or to shoot? With no gasoline, the pioneer agriculturists will toil on their hands and knees without something or someone to pull the plow.</p><p></p><p>Farm fences are not likely to have survived years of foreclosures, corporate risk tables and the GMO seed fights. While the infrastructure looms high on the ethics of the permaculture Tribes, fostering values that will create a better neighborhood than the ones smoldering in Sacramento and many other deserted towns are in the other vein.</p><p></p><p>* * * * * * *</p><p></p><p>“We need a planting and a harvest sharing ritual.”</p><p></p><p>“And a Permaculture Design Course.”</p><p></p><p>“And fix the roads and the windmills.”</p><p></p><p>“Should we create teams of experts that can visit each settlement and quickly fix one major thing?”</p><p></p><p>“How do we repair the dislocation and fallen love between brothers and sisters?”</p><p></p><p>* * * * * * *</p><p></p><p>How do these folk move forward without an empowering emotional ladder from their past? There are no web communities, no iPhones and few if any photos of grandma and grandpa on the porch. Perhaps the Convergence will bring an evolved DIY spirit with open arms from the farmers on their emo-map?</p><p></p><p>* * * * * * *</p><p>4573 people overwhelmed the organizers at the first annual New Farm Convergence in NorCal.</p><p></p><p>New Mythologists, Shadow Walkers, Moon-glow Pagans, Eco-Alchemists, Nerdy Permaculturists, and ever hopeful Transitionites were all there, including the loved but lost peeps from places like Carson, Davis and Seattle. Most danced with the hoops and tended buried pigs and waved wands at the festival.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>The Convergence folks decided to take-on the following projects as a new regional community in Year 01:</strong></p><p></p><p></p><p>1. Mobile Seed Sharing Library</p><p></p><p>2. Wind Mill Repair Squad to help get water and local power moving</p><p></p><p>3. Garden / Compost Design Workshop (quarterly)</p><p></p><p>* * * * * * *</p><p></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=orfRc4g6LCk#t=0">Building the Story of Cascadia: New Tools for the Transition Workshop</a></strong><br /> Video & Hand-out from 2012 NWP Convergence by Willi Paul, newmythologist.com</p><p></p><p>* * * * * * *</p><p><span class="font-size-5"><strong>Myth Lab #11</strong></span></p><p></p><p>The Myth Lab #11 Process Model that follows includes discovering an <strong>Artifact</strong> and <strong>mythic imprinting</strong>. The goal is to integrate permaculture, transition, Nature and sustainability with the emerging values and struggles in the Chaos Age. Myth Lab is designed as an interactive, open source and iterative experience. One goal is clear: we need to build new values and myths to support new post-occupancy food and governance systems.</p><p></p><p><strong>Here are some key ideas in the Myth Lab Process:</strong></p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Mythos</strong> – The pattern of basic values and attitudes of a people characteristically transmitted through myths and the arts. What is the mythos of the Post-Chaos Era?</p><p></p><p><strong>New Mythology</strong> – Is a call for new Nature-based, globally integrated stories without allegiance to any classic mythologies. New Mythology incorporates new symbols, alchemy and rituals with an eye on the future.</p><p></p><p><strong><a href="http://transitionculture.org/2008/05/01/what-is-a-transition-initiative-the-archers-definition/">The Transition Movement</a></strong> includes new business exchange schemes where waste is used by another business; garden sharing that allows neighbors to re-use barren land. The movement encourages people to choose local food, including support for smart transit and sharing / barter.</p><p></p><p><strong>Mythic Imprinting</strong> – Imprinting is defined as a two-way interaction with a selected Artifact that has generates synergistic meaning for both creators and the reader. This <strong>iterative and transmutative process</strong> is grounded in the initiation, journey and hero work from Joseph Campbell and is one way that neighborhood artifacts can help participants generate new songs, poems and myths.</p><p></p><p><strong><a href="http://youtu.be/hfPS5EJxocM">8 Key Elements in the New Mythology</a></strong> include:</p><p></p><p>1. Localization – back to sustainability and community; self-sufficiency</p><p>2. Nature- Centric</p><p>3. Spiritual</p><p>4. Future-based</p><p>5. Universal themes(s) and message</p><p>6. Para-Normal in conflict or characters</p><p>7. Initiation, Journey and Hero</p><p>8. Permaculture & Transition: values and principles</p><p></p><p><strong>Please enjoy all </strong><a href="http://www.planetshifter.com/node/56">52 New Myths</a>.</p><p></p><p>* * * * * *</p><p></p><p><strong>5 Step Process Model for Myth Lab # 11</strong></p><p><strong>1. Discover the Artifact</strong><br /> (Read the Paintings)</p><p>Barns<br /> Hay<br /> Horses and Buggies<br /> Cats<br /> Crops<br /> Harvesting crops<br /> Men working in fields<br /> Harvesting Equipment<br /> Wind Mill & Gear Shack<br /> Farm House<br /> Maple Sugar Shack and collection activities<br /> Wood Fences<br /> Trees + Forests<br /> Blue Sky & Clouds<br /> Seasons</p><p></p><p><strong>2. Incorporate the Artifact</strong></p><p></p><p>Rural Life<br /> Pioneer Spirit<br /> Seasons as Calendar ….<br /> Old Ethics?<br /> Land-based living<br /> Neighbors in the Nuclear Family<br /> Promises<br /> Church<br /> Nostalgia as Preparer<br /> The Reservoir<br /> Familiar<br /> Rituals – chores, church, preparing for next season, picnics, school</p><p></p><p><strong>New Sustainable Communities</strong></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.patternliteracy.com/resources/ethics-and-principles">Permaculture Ethics and Principles</a> as New Re-Localizing Bonds & Codes</p><p></p><p>Seed Library – protecting Nature’s harvest</p><p></p><p>“Translation Back then Forward” - Can we “go back” and capture the lessons and technology and values from history?</p><p></p><p><strong>3. Mythic Transmutation</strong></p><p></p><p>Community as Hero</p><p></p><p>Initiation – back to the past for values and tools and into a changed future; the “convergence”<br /> Community Transition</p><p></p><p>Nature as Land as Crops as Sacred?</p><p></p><p>Journey in the <strong><a href="http://openmythsource.com/2012/07/29/the-cascadia-funnel-and-the-last-3-eras-on-earth-new-myth-25-by-willi-paul-openmythsource-com/">Post-Chaos Era</a></strong></p><p></p><p>Disaster Planning - re-learning (Initiation), re-localizing</p><p></p><p><strong>4. Create the New Myth</strong></p><p>(see New Myth #52 - above)</p><p></p><p><strong>5. Share New Myth and Journey</strong></p><p>Storytelling, Social Media, Town Meetings, etc.</p></div>“New Sharing & Return Rituals & Their Symbols in Transition” by Willi Paul, openmythsource.comhttps://sustainablecoco.ning.com/profiles/blogs/new-sharing-return-rituals-their-symbols-in-transition-by-willi2013-09-15T19:42:31.000Z2013-09-15T19:42:31.000ZWilli Paulhttps://sustainablecoco.ning.com/members/WilliPaul<div><p></p><h2 class="entry-title" style="text-align:center;"><a href="http://openmythsource.com/2013/09/14/new-sharing-return-rituals-their-symbols-in-transition-by-willi-paul-openmythsource-com/">“New Sharing & Return Rituals & Their Symbols in Transition”</a></h2><h2 class="entry-title" style="text-align:center;"><a href="http://openmythsource.com/2013/09/14/new-sharing-return-rituals-their-symbols-in-transition-by-willi-paul-openmythsource-com/">by Willi Paul, openmythsource.com</a></h2><div class="entry-meta"></div><div class="entry-content"><br /><p>One critical mandate for the Transition Movement in the present <b><a href="http://openmythsource.com/2012/07/29/the-cascadia-funnel-and-the-last-3-eras-on-earth-new-myth-25-by-willi-paul-openmythsource-com/">Chaos Era</a></b> is to create<b><a href="http://www.planetshifter.com/node/1855">new myths</a></b> and associated rituals that guide us. What rituals do you participate in now; as a child? Do your stories speak to a world in turmoil? Who controls the narrative? This is a call for new rituals: a <b>universal s</b><b>haring and return</b> to family, city core, gardens, fields, water, soul and Nature.</p><p></p><p>* * * * * * *</p><h2><b>Definitions</b></h2><p></p><p><b>Ritual (2)</b></p><p>(a) A <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ritual"><b>ritual</b></a> “is a sequence of activities involving gestures, words, and objects, performed in a sequestered place, and designed to influence preternatural entities or forces on behalf of the actors’ goals and interests.” Rituals may be prescribed by the traditions of a community, including a religious community.</p><p></p><p>(b) Semi-regular gathering of family or community members that share a Nature-based experience, value or dream often associated with formal roles and traditions. (W. Paul)</p><p></p><p><b>Universal</b></p><p><b> </b>(c)<b> </b>A globally understood sign (i.e. – meaning) that mandates care for all cultures. (W. Paul)</p><p></p><p><b>Return</b></p><p><b> </b>(d) To come back home; re-integrate; initiate; honor and acknowledge the sacred in all things. (W. Paul)</p><p></p><p>* * * * * * *</p><p align="center"><a href="http://openmythsource.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/symbols-group.png"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3466" alt="symbols - group" src="http://openmythsource.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/symbols-group.png?w=640" /></a></p><p align="center"></p><p align="center"></p><h2><b>New Sharing & Return Rituals</b></h2><p></p><p><b>The Return of Ivory to Native Lands</b></p><p>In Chiang Mai, <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293917-d1422414-Reviews-Thai_Elephant_Home-Chiang_Mai.html">Thailand</a>, elephants are healed and cared for on farms for visitors and locals alike. The big mammals are protected from poachers and considered sacred. Are they our equals? Can we see that Asian elephants and all earthly beings are part of a global family? That the return of stolen tusks from world-wide black markets is an act of healing, honor and learning with Nature. Tusk revenue returned to the farms support preservation and education. This program of “international return” to local care is a ritual of love, sharing and support.</p><p></p><p><b>Soil Building</b></p><p>With neighbors we clear grass heavy lands with controlled fires and shovels as a safety precaution and for soil building, turning-over the burnt wood and ash, adding compost from the neighborhood bins and then re-planting. With permaculture, we share knowledge and resources to keep fire on our side and to obtain healthy soils and sustainable yields.</p><p></p><p><b>Harvest Dance</b></p><p>Together we celebrate both Nature and Permaculture calendars, our union of science and spirit at last. Picking each crop as it matures, teaching the youth to dance, to sort, peel, prepare and cook for their sharing dance, a seasonal celebration.</p><p></p><p><b>Taking Down the Fences</b></p><p>Localization in the back yard! From a pragmatic point of view, taking down your fences can mean better friendships with your neighborhoods, a heightened sharing opportunity! Property lines are gone, yielding larger gardens and shared yields! Here is a return to our extended family of humans and animals, increasing views and openings to a local horizon; building resilience, trust and sharing between often fearful and isolated strangers.</p><p></p><p><b>The Convergence</b></p><p>The New College is born! The Convergence is a spirit recharger, a fun zone, full of agriculture lessons, dancing allowed! The Convergence brain thrust propels our union, sharing tech and spirit alike; accelerating our paradigm shift to a new land.</p><p><br /><b>Sharing Expo</b></p><p>Bring what you have, take what you need. Ask a question, make a friend! Extend the Good Will model? The Sharing Expo is a true “Win-Win”, building and sharing the new network all at once; dissolving capitalism with new rituals.</p><p></p><p align="center">* * * * * * *</p><p align="center"><i>Our swing dance in the mud<br />Measuring, carrying, dumping, folding<br />Packing, balling, throwing, spreading, smoothing<br /><strong>Community shaping</strong></i></p><p align="center"><i>Sacred is choosing the long view, <strong>re-loving Nature’s spirit</strong>, the shared view<br />We are growing local heroes here</i></p><p align="center"></p><p align="center">Excerpt: <a href="http://www.planetshifter.com/node/1906">The Cinnamon Cob Dance</a><strong>. Lyrics & Poster by W. Paul</strong></p><p align="center"><strong><a href="http://openmythsource.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/rosaring-drawing.gif"><img class="wp-image-3465 alignnone" alt="rosaring-drawing" src="http://openmythsource.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/rosaring-drawing.gif?w=200&h=218" width="200" height="218" /></a> </strong></p><div id="jp-post-flair" class="sharedaddy sd-rating-enabled sd-like-enabled sd-sharing-enabled"><div class="sharedaddy sd-sharing-enabled"><div class="robots-nocontent sd-block sd-social sd-social-icon-text sd-sharing"><h3 class="sd-title">Share this:</h3><p></p></div></div></div></div></div>We are the Stories We Need -- Myth Lab eBook 12 New Myths #38 – #48 by Willi Paulhttps://sustainablecoco.ning.com/profiles/blogs/we-are-the-stories-we-need-myth-lab-ebook-12-new-myths-38-48-by2013-09-12T15:58:52.000Z2013-09-12T15:58:52.000ZWilli Paulhttps://sustainablecoco.ning.com/members/WilliPaul<div><p style="text-align:center;"></p><p style="text-align:center;"><a href="http://communityalchemy.com/ebook12/eBook12.pdf" target="_blank"><img src="http://openmythsource.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/centerspace1.jpg?w=353&h=456&width=273" width="273" alt="centerspace1.jpg?w=353&h=456&width=273" /></a></p><p style="text-align:center;"><span class="font-size-3"><strong><span><a href="http://communityalchemy.com/ebook12/eBook12.pdf" target="_blank"><span>Myth Lab eBook 12</span></a></span></strong></span></p><h1 style="text-align:center;"><span class="font-size-3">New Myths #38 – #48</span></h1><p style="text-align:center;"> <b>Artifact </b><b>> Alchemy > Imprintation > Community</b></p><p> </p><p><b>Why we need new myths, poems, songs, and rituals?</b></p><p></p><p><i>“</i><a href="http://www.theopinionatedartist.com/2013/06/the-new-mythology-of-life.html"><b><i>Just before his death</i></b></a><i> Joseph Campbell was interviewed by Bill Moyers and that interview was later turned into the documentary, “The Power of Myth.” In this interview he postulated the idea that humanity was in need of new mythologies. Ones that were not rooted in the ancient world as all our current ones are. But myth’s that would help us navigate this new and strange world we are creating.”</i></p><p></p><p>Long-held institutions like the Catholic Church and governments like the City of Detroit have failed while corporations are fighting each other to frack our land and steal water rights. Capitalism will surely fail in the near term as climate changes raises the stakes on who has food to eat and land to live on. <b>We are the </b><a href="http://openmythsource.com/2012/07/29/the-cascadia-funnel-and-the-last-3-eras-on-earth-new-myth-25-by-willi-paul-openmythsource-com/"><b>Chaos Era</b></a><b>.</b></p><p></p><p><b> </b><b>We are running ourselves into the ground.</b></p><p></p><p>What now? A so-called <b>Transition Era</b>. 50 – 75 years from now what will our children believe? Sing? Will they find <a href="http://openmythsource.com/2013/01/05/new-animation-model-case-study-for-transition-children-by-willi-paul-newmythologist-com/"><b>the tools</b></a> and a healthy spirit to build a new world culture, based on sustainability values, local connections and alternative tools like permaculture and green technology? Or just more disposable gadgets and online communities driven by selfishness and advertising?</p><p>I believe processes like Myth Lab can pull us together – and past the darkness we face.</p><p></p><p><b> </b><b>Myth Lab</b> <a href="http://youtu.be/hfPS5EJxocM"><b>is a filter, a mapping process</b></a> to a new world that is coming quickly:</p><p><b><i> </i></b></p><h1 align="center"><span><b><i>Describe the present > implement the mythic > work a global dream</i></b></span></h1></div>SunDial Tribe @ Cascadia. New Myth #48 by Willi Paul, openmythsource.comhttps://sustainablecoco.ning.com/profiles/blogs/sundial-tribe-cascadia-new-myth-48-by-willi-paul-openmythsource2013-08-15T01:30:00.000Z2013-08-15T01:30:00.000ZWilli Paulhttps://sustainablecoco.ning.com/members/WilliPaul<div><p><span class="font-size-4">SunDial Tribe @ Cascadia. New Myth #48</span><br /> <span class="font-size-4">by Willi Paul, <a href="http://wp.me/p14SHM-SU" target="_blank">openmythsource.com</a></span></p><p></p><p><b>HISTORY > RETROFIT</b></p><p></p><p>The old train watch tower in the center of the Tribe circle and food forest was retrofitted over ten years ago with a lighthouse lens from a Bolinas, CA antique store. Legend has it that good spirits came with the 305 lb. orb, a beacon that generates more than shadows and a safe path home. The “Watch Tower” as the Tribe calls it, is a copy of a Detroit rail road look-out hut that was manned in support of human track switching much preferred over an electronic hand (and mandated by local law).</p><p></p><p><b>SITE MAPPING > ZONES</b></p><p></p><p><b>The tower has a three-part functionality:</b></p><p></p><p>(A) Light / Shadow Beacon – During a sunny Cascadia day the structure spills a shadow on rough stone bollards and around the sundial so the community can orchestrate their schedules and chores. At night, a security light shines in four directions to help guide travelers and vendors.</p><p>(B) Pigeon Coop – guano for the garden and the traditional winged-mail</p><p>(C) Tool Locker – permaculture tools like shovels, spades, twine</p><p></p><p><b>In four quadrants, the food forest is mostly fruit trees with some leafy greens and flowers woven in. Adjacent to the circular food forest, four outer land uses have been established:</b></p><p></p><p>(A) Horse Corral – these animals include donkeys and pull the small carts on the rail way.</p><p>(B) Compost Mill – including the pigeon guano, horse manure and human waste for soil making and barter.</p><p>(C) Food Production – honey bees are here as is tofu and jam making spaces,</p><p>(D) Barter’s Market – Tribes share more than their neighbor’s food at the weekly Sunday market!</p><p>Their oasis or Tribal hub is sandwiched on the north and south sides of the property by rail tracks that go east or travel west to the coast.</p><p></p><p><a href="http://wp.me/p14SHM-SU"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-3406 align-center" alt="plan new myth #48" src="http://openmythsource.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/plan-new-myth-48.png?w=640&h=489" width="529" height="404" /></a></p><p></p><p><b>INVITATION > COMMUNITY SHARE</b></p><p></p><p><b>Helios:</b> “But I still don’t how light is emanating from that tower every night! There is no power source”</p><p><b>Rache:</b> “Surely there are some things that even a big time permaculturist can’t explain!”</p><p></p><p>The Tribe has its share of irascible teenagers and these two are the driving contours of their click. Helios loves to care for the large animals and earns riding chits almost daily. The integration of the Tribe’s horses as transportation engines, and in the compost chemistry, are legend. Rache, more a people person with a sharp eye and smile for barter and quality in general. Many see these two on the Tribal Council some day.</p><p></p><p>As the SunDial Tribe retrofitted the rail way, many unforeseen communication and commerce opportunities were discovered and “rolled-out.” Library books now come and go back thru a loaner program from Eugene. Fish from the Pacific and inland streams go to market once or twice a month. Letters and packages go on rails.</p><p></p><p>During harvest rituals, the SunDial is lit with bee wax candles and turned in to a dance space. Meals are eaten on the four paths and songs are performed from the high room in the tower.</p><p></p><p><a href="http://wp.me/p14SHM-SU"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-3407 align-center" alt="lighthouse lens" src="http://openmythsource.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/lighthouse-lens.jpg?w=207&h=263" width="157" height="199" /></a></p><p></p><p></p></div>“Myth Lab Live @ NW Permaculture Convergence 2013, Forest Grove, OR” : Report from Willi Paulhttps://sustainablecoco.ning.com/profiles/blogs/myth-lab-live-nw-permaculture-convergence-2013-forest-grove-or2013-08-10T19:30:00.000Z2013-08-10T19:30:00.000ZWilli Paulhttps://sustainablecoco.ning.com/members/WilliPaul<div><p></p><div class="entry-content"><p style="text-align:center;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jAxn9n5tz1k&feature=youtu.be"><img class="wp-image-3378 alignnone" alt="process model" src="http://openmythsource.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/process-model.png?w=448&h=334" width="448" height="334" /></a></p><h3 style="text-align:center;"><strong>“<a title="Myth Lab Live - NW Permaculture Convergence 2013 by Willi Paul" href="http://youtu.be/hfPS5EJxocM">Myth Lab Live</a> @ NW Permaculture Convergence 2013,</strong><br /> <strong>Forest Grove, OR” : Report from Willi Paul</strong></h3><p></p><p><strong> </strong><em>“<a href="http://www.theopinionatedartist.com/2013/06/the-new-mythology-of-life.html">Just before his death</a> Joseph Campbell was interviewed by Bill Moyers and that interview was later turned into the documentary, “The Power Of Myth.” In this interview he postulated the idea that humanity was in need of new mythologies. Ones that were not rooted in the ancient world as all our current ones are. But myth’s that would help us navigate this new and strange world we are creating.”</em></p><p></p><h3><strong>Summary</strong></h3><p></p><p><a title="Myth Lab Main Site by Willi Paul" href="http://wp.me/P14SHM-OX" target="_blank"><b>Myth Lab</b></a> is a collaborative workshop that transforms an <a title="Artifact Myth Lab #7 by Willi Paul" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jAxn9n5tz1k&feature=youtu.be" target="_blank"><b>Artifact</b></a> (i.e. – nature walk, street graffiti or a short story for example) with a five stage deductive process using Permaculture and Transition principles, Nature and alchemy. Each Myth Lab critiques the present state of our ecosystem and offers a positive way to vision the future. The product of this process is a <a title="New Myths by Willi Paul, Planetshifter.com Magazine" href="http://www.planetshifter.com/node/1855" target="_blank"><b>New Myth</b></a>.</p><p></p><p><a title="8 Elements of New Myths by Willi Paul" href="http://youtu.be/hfPS5EJxocM" target="_blank"><b>8 Key Elements in the New Mythology </b></a>includes:</p><p>1. Localization – back to sustainability and community; self-sufficiency</p><p>2. Nature- Centric</p><p>3. Spiritual</p><p>4. Future-based</p><p>5. Universal themes(s) and message</p><p>6. Para-Normal in conflict or characters</p><p>7. Initiation, Journey and Hero</p><p>8. Permaculture & Transition: values and principles</p><p></p><p><strong>Integral </strong>to the Myth Lab experience is <a title="Mythic Imprintation by Willi Paul" href="http://wp.me/P14SHM-OX" target="_blank"><b>Mythic Imprintation</b></a>, a creative stage that helps participants recognize and incorporate symbology, sounds, alchemy and visioning to re-purpose the Artifact into a mythic landscape.</p><p></p><p>* * * * * * *</p><p></p><p><a href="http://youtu.be/hfPS5EJxocM"><img class="size-full wp-image-3426 alignnone" alt="screenshotwilli" src="http://openmythsource.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/screenshotwilli.png?w=640" /></a></p><p></p><p>At the NW Permaculture Convergence <a title="NW Permaculture Convergence Myth Lab Live Event by Willi Paul" href="http://youtu.be/hfPS5EJxocM" target="_blank"><strong>Myth Lab</strong></a>, the Artifact combined a photo of a Detroit rail yard watch tower with and<b> a soundtrack</b>. Please see the YouTube Video. In the introduction, the group offered their insights in “<b>What is Myth? </b>and<b> </b>do you have any<b>Personal experiences with Myth?</b>” Some of our responses included:</p><p></p><ul><li>Story with a moral</li><li>Mystery</li><li>Wonder & Adventure</li><li>Fairy Worlds</li><li>Ancient Mythos – rites of passage</li><li>Archetypes (2)</li><li>Hero, Journey, Community</li><li>Community Accepted / Handed Down</li><li>Animals that Represent Humans</li><li>Gathering of Tribes</li><li>Vital Information</li><li>Origin Stories – Underground</li><li>Explore the Shadow</li><li>Is Permaculture the New Pantheon?</li><li>Translating classic myths with new names and struggles</li></ul><p>The Myth Lab <strong><a href="http://openmythsource.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/hand-out-myth-lab-7-willi-paul.pdf">Hand-out</a></strong> guided the participants thru the <b>five stage process</b> of discovery, including <b>describing the Artifact two components</b>. We found the following:</p><p></p><p><b>Watch Tower (jpg)</b></p><ul><li>Lonely</li><li>Stark</li><li>Foreboding</li><li>See Dr. Seuss “Borax”</li><li>Exile</li><li>Leftover</li><li>Bare Tree</li><li>Community Power Box</li><li>Telephone Pole</li><li>Signal poles</li><li>Railroad Tracks</li><li>Prison</li></ul><p><b> “Moonglow & Brokenglass” (mp3)</b></p><ul><li>Powering Up</li><li>Magic moment</li><li>Hope</li><li>60 MHz hum (persuasive, bad)</li><li>Car going by</li><li>Sawing</li><li>Happy ending</li><li>Exploring</li><li>Interrupted</li><li>Tension</li><li>Fake Happiness</li><li>Disturbing</li></ul><p><strong>In Stage 4</strong>, Myth Lab crew began the task of <strong>building <a href="http://wp.me/p14SHM-SU" target="_blank">New Myth # 48</a></strong> with their Intro Data, Artifact Descriptions, and Mythic Imprinting:</p><p></p><ul><li>Watch Tower as a look-out / guard tower, tool shed, alchemy lab meditation and Sun Dial</li><li>Surrounded by Food Forest</li><li>Rails are maintained as a material crop transport system</li><li>A Tribe lives here</li><li>Using pigeons for communication</li><li>Tower holds a new power source</li><li>Horse power</li><li>Compost production</li><li>Retreat center for region</li></ul><h3><span class="font-size-4">Assignment!</span></h3><p></p><p><a href="http://wp.me/p14SHM-SU"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-3406 align-center" alt="plan new myth #48" src="http://openmythsource.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/plan-new-myth-48.png?w=640&h=489" width="572" height="437" /></a></p><p></p><p>In <a title="New Myth #48 by Willi Paul" href="http://wp.me/p14SHM-SU" target="_blank"><strong>New Myth #48</strong></a>, what does the Tower, rail way and Food Forest symbolize? How are they integrated? How is the Tribe creating and implementing new mythology?</p><p></p><p>* * * * * * *</p><h4><span class="font-size-1">Willi Paul</span><br /> <span class="font-size-1">New Mythologist & Transition Entrepreneur</span><br /> <span class="font-size-1">newmythologist.com | PlanetShifter.com Magazine | openmythsource.com</span><br /> <span class="font-size-1">@planetshifter @openmythsource @newmythologist</span><br /> <span class="font-size-1">415-407-4688 | pscompub at gmail.com</span></h4></div></div>“2013 Myth Labs in SF & Portland.” Presented by Willi Paul, NewMythologist.com & openmythsource.comhttps://sustainablecoco.ning.com/profiles/blogs/2013-myth-labs-in-sf-portland-presented-by-willi-paul2013-07-16T19:30:00.000Z2013-07-16T19:30:00.000ZWilli Paulhttps://sustainablecoco.ning.com/members/WilliPaul<div><h2><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Myth Lab</strong> is designed as an interactive, open source and iterative experience. We need to build our own messages and new myths to support new community, food and governance systems. Examples and process details on the five stage process can be found at the <a href="http://openmythsource.com/myth-lab/" target="_blank">Myth Lab website</a>.</span></h2><p></p><p>Each Myth Lab gathering starts with an actual neighborhood place or artifact for neighborhood activists and media savory collaborators where participants spend ~ 60 minutes analyzing a pre-selected Artifact to produce a new myth. Please see <a href="http://openmythsource.com/2013/06/20/mythic-visions-rituals-a-free-collaborative-event-goal-write-a-new-nature-myth-based-on-the-tree-of-life-mural-chicano-park-san-diego-ca-willi-paul-newmythologist-com/">Myth Lab #5</a> and <a href="http://openmythsource.com/2013/07/09/land-sky-river-stars-new-myth-46-by-willi-paul-newmythologist-com/">New Myth # 46</a> as an example of a New Myth. A process model is included that illustrates mythic imprinting with more depth. The goal for Myth Lab is to integrate permaculture, transition, Nature and sustainability with the values and struggles of the Chaos Era.</p><h1><b><a href="http://openmythsource.com/2013/07/15/myth-lab-6-in-the-garden/">Myth Lab in the Garden</a></b></h1><p><a href="http://openmythsource.com/2013/07/15/myth-lab-6-in-the-garden/"><img class="wp-image-3341 alignleft" alt="myth lab image for PTG web site" src="http://openmythsource.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/myth-lab-image-for-ptg-web-site.png?w=286&h=300" width="286" height="300" /></a></p><p><a title="Please Touch Garden, SF" href="http://pleasetouchgarden.org/MythLab.html" target="_blank"><strong>Please Touch Community Garden</strong></a></p><p>165 Grove Street<br /> San Francisco, CA<br /> Saturday, July 20<br /> 11:00 am to 1:00 pm</p><p></p><p>On Saturday we will explore Please Touch Garden as the Artifact, using a five step process to explore and write a <a href="http://www.planetshifter.com/node/1855" target="_blank">New Myth</a> together.</p><p></p><p><strong>Possible questions for our collaboration include:</strong></p><p>+ What is a garden?<br />+ What are some of the past, present and future scientific and sacred interpretations of the Garden?<br />+ What classic and new myths and rituals use the garden as the focus for community celebrations?<br />+ How does science and spirit work together at the Garden?<br />+ What symbols are found here and in your backyard garden?<br />+ How does the permaculture garden at 18th and Rhode Island in SF relate to Please Touch Garden?</p><p>* * * * * * *</p><h1><b><a href="http://www.northwestpermaculture.org/">Myth Lab at the 2013 Northwest Permaculture Convergence</a></b></h1><p><a href="http://youtu.be/jAxn9n5tz1k"><img class="wp-image-3343 alignleft" alt="DTRR-DetroitMIWarrenAvenueCrossingWatchmanTower031476[CharlesGeletzkeJr]" src="http://openmythsource.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/dtrr-detroitmiwarrenavenuecrossingwatchmantower031476charlesgeletzkejr.jpg?w=277&h=337" width="277" height="337" /></a></p><p><strong>Pacific University</strong></p><p>2043 College Way<br /> Forest Grove, OR<br /> Saturday, July 3<br /> 10 – 12 am</p><p></p><p><b>The NWPCC Myth Lab</b> will generate a New Myth using a special video Artifact (soundtrack + photo) entitled: <strong>“Watch Tower”</strong>: <a href="http://youtu.be/jAxn9n5tz1k" target="_blank">http://youtu.be/jAxn9n5tz1k</a></p><p></p><p><strong>Questions for this Myth Lab may include:</strong></p><p>+ How does sound support our mythic senses to vision a new world?<br /> + How do we translate or transmutate sound into visual cues, messages and global action?<br /> + What is initiation in the Myth Lab process as Joseph Campbell describes it?<br /> + How can we map the sound alchemy as it supports the visual image?+ How does sound support our mythic senses to vision a new world?<br /> + How do we translate or transmutate sound into visual cues, messages and global action?<br /> + What is initiation in the Myth Lab process as Joseph Campbell describes it?<br /> + How can we map the sound alchemy as it supports the visual image</p><p></p><p><b>About Mr. Paul –</b></p><p>As a green certified business and sustainability consultant, Willi Paul launched<a href="http://planetshifter.com/">PlanetShifter.com Magazine</a> on Earth Day 2009 to build a database of interviews and articles about innovation, sustainability, and the mystic arts. His bliss renewed in 2011 when he designed <a href="http://openmythsource.com/">openmythsource.com</a> to produce new mythic stories with modern alchemies. His work now focuses on what is sacred is to us, the community building power of permaculture and the transformative energy in the new alchemy (ex: soil, sound, digital) and global mythologies. Willi earned his permaculture design certification in August 2011 at the <a href="http://www.upisf.com/">Urban Permaculture Institute</a>, SF. Please see his cutting-edge article at the <a href="http://www.jcf.org/new/index.php?categoryid=37&blogid=24">Joseph Campbell Foundation</a> and his <a href="http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0FAEA97D12725FB0&action_edit=1&feature=view_all">pioneering videos</a> on YouTube. Please view his consulting site at <a href="http://newmythologist.com/">NewMythologist.com</a>.</p></div>"Black Soil Tribe": Interview with 2013 Northwest Permaculture Convergence Presenter Eric McCool by Willi Paul, Planetshifter.com Magazinehttps://sustainablecoco.ning.com/profiles/blogs/black-soil-tribe-interview-with-2013-northwest-permaculture2013-07-13T17:05:01.000Z2013-07-13T17:05:01.000ZWilli Paulhttps://sustainablecoco.ning.com/members/WilliPaul<div><p></p><p><b> <a href="http://planetshifter.com" target="_blank"><img src="" width="495" class="align-center" alt="" /></a></b></p><p></p><p><b>Black Soil Tribe: Interview with 2013 Northwest Permaculture Convergence Presenter Eric McCool by Willi Paul, Planetshifter.com Magazine</b></p><p><b> </b></p><p><b>“</b>In the Cow Creek Valley of Southern Oregon, we are making preparations for the shifting paradigm, striving for independence from industrial systems. With resilience and self-reliance as our guiding principles, we are growing food and growing neighborly networks into tribe. The process of localization relates to the underlying ethic of permaculture: care of Earth, care of people. We’ve found that the best way to get to know each other is to work together, and we’ve combined the labor of localizing with potlucks, parties, and seasonal gatherings. Together we build fences, plant gardens, chop firewood, preserve food, make music, and go on adventures. In three years we’ve created a farming cooperative, a community garden, a seed bank, and a regional network that’s beginning to feel like tribe.”</p><p><b> </b></p><p><b>* * * * * * *</b></p><p><b> </b></p><p><b>Interview with Eric by Willi</b></p><p><b> </b></p><p><b>Which permaculture principles best activate your vision and every day?</b></p><p> </p><p>Use of small intensive systems, probably. My impulse when I first started cultivating land was to fill up as much space as possible with as many plants as I could. I found myself quickly overwhelmed, not only by the work involved, but also by the amount of knowledge from experience required to plant and harvest at the right time, not to mention keep things alive. So from that I’ve learned to expand in small increments, and only plant in small numbers when dealing with plants I’ve not grown before. </p><p> </p><p>And that’s just with the gardens and food forest. Small and intensive systems also applies to our localization tribe, where we’re finding that building strong relationships with a handful of people is more important that making a big push to reach out to lots of people in the community at large all at once.</p><p> </p><p><b>What do you mean by “building a Tribe?”</b></p><p> </p><p>For most of our history, tribe was inherent to human culture. Since civilization took over, tribes have been replaced by other social constructions and humans have almost forgotten how to relate to each other in a natural way. Building tribe is about remembering our pre-civilization heritage and consciously creating a different kind of social atmosphere in which relationships are valued over material wealth, and in which we strive to harmonize with the natural world, not conquer and control it. We are building our tribe around the notion that we must trust each other and work together, sharing the difficulties and joys of life on the land as if we are all family. Because, really, we are!</p><p> </p><p><b>Talk in more detail about what you mean by “shifting the paradigm?” Shifting from where to where; with whom?</b></p><p> </p><p>Shifting from centralized coercion-based authority to localized consensus decision making. Shifting from phony fiat debt money issued by a cartel of usurers to barter, time banking, and currency backed by hard assets. Shifting from industrial import consumerism to local production and consumption; shifting from the notion that we are separate from nature to the idea of interconnectivity. Shifting from the use of aggression and force to the practice of peace, cooperation, and respect. </p><p> </p><p>Most of the problems we face in this world, I believe, are the result of our cultural philosophy. Our assumptions about who we are, what our role on this planet is, and how we should best live, must be re-examined.</p><p> </p><p>With whom? With any and all who are willing to let go of the entitlements of the current paradigm and work towards a healthier world, starting with themselves.</p><p><b> </b></p><p><b>What role do new songs & myths play in your community building?</b></p><p> </p><p>In our tribe, we haven’t strongly developed the practice of crafting and telling stories to help reinforce our vision, though we do make lots of music, and we have a few songwriters who promote the images of our intentions. I think myth and song are of utmost importance when it comes to reshaping culture, so that’s clearly something for us to put more energy into.</p><p> </p><p><b>What is localization? Can you share some of the ups and downs from Cow Creek Valley of Southern Oregon?</b></p><p> </p><p>Localization means reducing our dependence on outside producers, with the goal being community self-reliance. On the upside, numerous people in our valley see the importance of localizing, and we have quite a few producers of various goods. Lately we have begun to organize and coordinate our efforts, and we are developing a local product line along with a buy local campaign to promote to the general population. </p><p> </p><p>The downside is that you can’t really make much money selling produce or hand crafted goods in a small town, and it’s still cheaper to buy industrially produced goods from abroad than it is to produce them for yourself. For most people in our area, local production is a hobby. Most are too busy trying to eek out a living to put serious time into developing resilient local systems.</p><p> </p><p>Another downside is that we have accustomed ourselves to a way of life that simply would not be possible without global industrial production, and most people “need” far more than could ever be produced locally. So another aspect of localizing (and a difficult one) involves weaning off of things that are not essential to survival, even if they have become standard entitlements of our current way of life. </p><p> </p><p><b>Are there forces acting against the Permaculture movement?</b></p><p> </p><p>I just mentioned a big one: entitlements. Another is ignorance. I believe permaculture would all the rage if people understood how dire our situation is, ecologically and culturally. The more people accept that our current system cannot work and that we have no choice but to reevaluate our strategy, the more the principles of permaculture will be applied in the mainstream world, whether it gets called permaculture or not.</p><p><br />Even calling what we are doing permaculture can be an obstacle to the goals of the movement. I’ll be talking about this on the Friday night panel. I’ve met many people who are offended by the notion that a bunch of intellectuals with some fancy system are going to tell them how they could be doing things better by learning permaculture. I don’t mean to say that this is what permaculture is about, but in my experiences, this is often how it is perceived by old time farmers and rural working class folks. Hence the development of what I call undercover permaculture, in which we attempt to spread the good ideas inherent to permaculture subtly, introducing concepts and strategies in ways that are digestible for people who still operate within conventional culture.</p><p> </p><p><b>Who are some of the presenters that you will seek-out at the Convergence this year? Why?</b></p><p> </p><p>Paul Cienfuegos is one. I sat in his Sunday discussion at the convergence in 2011, and I was very inspired by some of the things he said. The phrase municipal civil disobedience stuck with me, and I’m glad to see that he will be talking about community rights, which I think are of utmost importance in the struggle to restore our society starting at the local level. </p><p> </p><p>I’m also very interested in talking with Carol Deppe, because it’s challenging to envision the scale of food production necessary to sustain a whole community without the use of heavy machinery, which I don’t count on having available to us forever. Figuring out ways to produce food and basic goods with less machinery and less reliance on fossil fuels and grid power is a big step in reclaiming our culture and restoring the health of the planet.</p><p> </p><p>Don Tipping has long been an inspiration to me, and Charlotte Anthony has been one of my primary permaculture teachers over the last few years, so I’ll also be looking for both of them. </p><p> </p><p>* * * * * *</p><p> </p><p><b>Eric’s Bio</b></p><p> </p><p>I was born in Texas. I went to Baylor University, Boston University, and University of Texas San Antonio, studying philosophy. I took a year off between the latter two to travel. I didn't graduate. I spent the next four years traveling, vagabonding, and backpacking, and seeking a spiritual path. I worked all manner of low paying jobs, only for long enough to get some money to hit the road again. Eventually I began to feel a strong calling to do something more for the planet and for the future, but it took me a while to figure out how to do that. Through the writings of <b><a href="http://carolynbaker.net/2011/10/19/the-mass-extinction-of-the-human-species-by-william-kotke/">William Kotke</a></b>, I learned about permaculture and moved up to Oregon to join an ecovillage project, which ultimately dissolved, but which got me in connection with the people I'm now working within the Glendale area, localizing and building tribe. Eric took his PDC course in 2010 under Tom Ward. </p><p> </p><p><b>Connect with Eric</b></p><p>eric.mccool@gmail.com</p></div>2013 Northwest Permaculture Convergence: Let's Grow Together!https://sustainablecoco.ning.com/profiles/blogs/2013-northwest-permaculture-convergence-let-s-grow-together2013-07-04T14:01:12.000Z2013-07-04T14:01:12.000ZWilli Paulhttps://sustainablecoco.ning.com/members/WilliPaul<div><p></p><div class="field field-type-image field-field-image"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item odd"><img src="http://www.planetshifter.com/uploads/imagecache/standard/centerspace_7.PNG" alt="" title="" height="525" width="341" class="align-center" /></div></div></div><p><strong>The 2013 NW Permaculture Convergence features a special <a href="http://openmythsource.com/myth-lab/">Myth Lab Presentation</a> by <a href="http://newmythologist.com/">NewMythologist</a> Willi Paul</strong></p><p></p><p>The 2013 NW Permaculture Convergence is an inclusive annual event which unites communities for a weekend of intensive focus on a common goal: to design sustainable habitats in accordance with nature for <strong>all humans, plants, and animals.</strong></p><p></p><p><strong>The 2013 event will be held at Pacific University, and B Street Farm in Forest Grove, Oregon on August 2 - 4, 2013</strong></p><p>Practitioners across a wide spectrum of skill sets exchange ideas through concurrent workshops ranging from organic agriculture and wildcrafting to natural building and appropriate technologies; from environmental remediation and disaster preparedness to community dynamics and global justice.</p><p>The 2013 Convergence will include a special <strong><a href="http://nwpccintro.blogspot.com/">Introduction to Applied Permaculture</a></strong> session on Friday morning at B Street Farm from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm.</p><p></p><p>"Applied Permaculture" means design and actions for real life application. This special discounted introduction will be appropriate for complete newcomers and anyone who wants to receive a concise overview of Permaculture Design Principles and work hands-on Friday morning.</p><p></p><p><strong>In addition to the workshop space, there are also dedicated areas for skill sharing, children's activities, educational displays, and vendors.</strong></p><p></p><p><strong><a href="http://www.northwestpermaculture.org/">More info and registration!</a></strong></p><p></p><p>Participants have opportunities to socialize over communal meals sourced from local growers, and during the evening's entertainment. Camping is available on-site for a nominal fee.</p></div>