Arriving in a new time and place, here is my updated,
hope-to-be annual Statement of Purpose. I am consciously renouncing language
that evokes empire, militarism, and religious oppression, so I choose to
refrain from calling this a “mission statement.” I hope this statement will
encourage others to contemplate and write out their own purpose statements.
Please share, so that we can inspire each other, and compassionately hold each
other accountable.
2013 Statement of Purpose:
I am here on the planet, and in this city, to heal myself on
every level, so that I can be a healing presence for others. I am here to
participate in the healing of my ancestors, my progeny, and members of my
communities, as well as communities themselves. I am here to be student, teacher,
and collaborator in the process of healing.
In order to fulfill this purpose, my goals are:
1.
To creatively and relentlessly resist and speak out against
oppressive structures, while focusing primarily on building self-determined
communities. I commit to spending 90% of my time and energy on building healthy
communities free from exploitation and oppression, and 10% of my time and
energy on creative resistance.
2.
To live increasingly independent of governments, societies and
livelihoods based on exploitation and oppression of the earth and its people,
especially people of color.
3.
To live increasingly in voluntary simplicity, reducing
personal possessions and use of earthly resources, while cultivating a sense of
inner abundance.
4.
To cultivate clarity of consciousness and continually increase
my capacity for loving kindness through inner work including yoga, meditation,
and the arts.
5.
To live cooperatively with people of color and allies
committed to healing themselves and their communities, sharing resources,
inspiration, and healing practices. These resources may include time, energy,
space, food, vehicles, skills, information, and life experience.
6.
To strengthen cooperative communities by practicing clear,
compassionate communication through deep listening and conversation, and
frameworks such as Nonviolent Communication, Circle work, Clearness Committees,
and more.
7.
To embrace celibacy as a spiritual path. Instead of
partnership and sexual relations, I choose to channel my energy toward healing
in the wider community. Meanwhile, I actively support other expressions of
non-heteronormative sexuality.
8.
To recognize and maximize my gifts and the gifts of others,
directing them toward uplifting community. I commit to freely sharing my gifts, and to encourage others
to do the same, trusting that giving and receiving are the basis of healthy
community.
9.
While working for the healing of the wider community, to be
the best mother I am capable of being, the best friend I am capable of being,
the best neighbor, housemate, student, teacher, mentor, etc. I am capable of
being. I understand that as inner work provides the foundation for outer work,
my personal relationships provide the foundation for relating to the wider
community.
10.
To place learning as a higher priority than teaching, and to
continually be open to new lessons, and the challenge of new experiences and
new perspectives. I commit to honoring the voice of truth within me, and
speaking from that voice, while humbly recognizing that truth is multi-faceted.
I commit to regarding everyone I encounter as my teacher.
