We’re just about half-way through the ABV pilot. A few thoughts from working with four consultants and three clients:

• Each time you tell your story, something new comes out. As I listen to clients tell their story multiple times, first to me, then to the ABV team of consultants, then in more detail in the Full Expression module, a new tidbit, phrase, or thought appears. As if a first "scraping" of the surface is necessary to find more nuggets underneath.
• When we have mastered our story is when we can make use of it to benefit others. That’s the place of reflection and insight instead of emotional overwhelm or anger or denial. This is not easy work, nor does it happen overnight.
• The expansion of a vision is often rooted in asking the question, "How does the thread of society or humanity run through my story?"  How are you like no other human being and how are you like all human beings?
• Scheduling the work sometimes takes longer than doing the actual work.
• It can be easy to look to money and power to solve problems, when really, what we need is connection to those directly impacted.
• We now have technology to evoke emotional responses to our cause from complete strangers. Online video, audio, and photos tell a story that words cannot do justice. Think about that  when attempting to build a community.
• We all have the capacity for leadership. Only some of us have leadership competency. The difference is often in NOT asking for permission to act. Instead, make it a habit to serve the higher good and your leadership competency will start to approach your leadership capacity.
• Gratitude is a hallmark of a good partnership.

I’ve been purposely abstract, to protect the privacy of the ABV clients. And when the pilot is over, I hope to provide more specifics.