Storytelling · Systems view

In the Presence of Another

A poem written from close observation of a conversation between two friends. It shows how I pay attention: to what is spoken and what is carried in expression, and to the roles of listener, sharer, and observer that shape every exchange.

How do these dynamics show up in your team and organization? How are they noticed, captured, and honored?

Space fills the air as she recounts tale after tale,
First the challenges of children entering adulthood,
Childhoods long departed with decisions laying ahead,
Wrestling with her place now as a parent watching, encouraging,
A daughter’s post college life taking shape,
Decisions on career, a life to choose, religious involvement
A nephew who too traveled the same path,
A bit more certain though, with his faith affirmed,
“He already had a strong faith…”
She shares, with steadiness in her voice.

A friend, a listener, a container
Sits across, arms unfolded, leaning in…
Into every story, every tale, every angst and every sigh,
Across the wooden table she makes room to hear, listen,
Breaking the flow of conversation with small nods,
Affirming words, the occasional “that’s wonderful”,
Granting the gift of silence and of words,
A demeanor that invites sharing, presence, mere belonging.

The social interaction becomes a dance,
A marriage of giving and receiving,
Exchanging nods, gazes, attentiveness for permission…
Permission to open up, to pour out,
A giving of secrecy,
An invitation ushered in words, extended over a warm cup,
Bringing another into the folds of private life,
Into the sharing of tales held near and dear.

An observer, quiet voyeur perhaps, there I sit,
Close enough to see, hear and be moved by their stories,
The ones spoken aloud and those conveyed in expressions,
Having been both listener and sharer in the past,
Recognizing the power that lies in each space,
Positions that hold empathy, power and presence,
Quietly observing, noting and hoping
To capture the exchanges, the expressions, the meanings,
To only tell that which spoke in words or breath or gaze.

Strategizing with a storyteller and systems thinker brings listening into focus. It helps you capture the human elements of your organization in ways that are meaningful and impactful. Start a conversation