Naples resident Ann Smith has been participating in the Millionth Circle since its inception. “In 2001, at our first international gathering of Gather the Women, we created our mission statement, circle principles and guidelines described by Justine Willis Toms on page 30. Jean Shinoda Bolen was there, and we’ve been having Millionth Circle gatherings ever since. Jean believes that every sacred circle is like a pebble dropped into the water, creating wider and wider circles of influence. She sees every circle contributing to the tipping point,” says Smith, who has participated in circles since 1976.  

Smith points out specific benefits from taking part in circles—shared leadership, a deep sense of sisterhood, loving and meaningful relationships, a sense of being supported and having fun. “It’s meaningful to take part in something that demonstrates a different way to be with one another, where there is no power over, but power in collaboration with, co-creativity and committed participation. It’s really the most productive setting for human beings, where they get to experience and be part of the collective wisdom,” she says.

In a circle, Smith notes that everyone gets to express intuitively how they feel and express things from a spiritual perspective. “I’m listened to, heard, and not judged. With no hierarchy, everyone is equal in circle, which is a true form of democracy, where everyone is equally valued. Rich or poor, Ph.D. or GED, we are all equal and have something to contribute. In a patriarchal setting, women speaking about their intuition and spirituality are put down and dismissed,” advises Smith, who is looking forward to using circle principles and guidelines in Naples’ inaugural Green Tent Circle on December 4 in Naples’ Cambier Park. See event spotlight, (page 17).