The Joy Circles for creating Social and Communal Harmony

Theme: Cultivating Joy & Communal Harmony

### 1. Arrival & Settling (5 minutes)

Participants arrive and take a seat in a circle. Soft instrumental music or silence.
Invitation:
“Take a moment to arrive—letting go of the day and settling into this shared space.”

***

### 2. Opening the Circle – Candle Lighting (5 minutes)

A candle is lit at the center of the circle as a symbol of presence and shared intention.
Opening words:
“We light this candle to mark our time together and our intention to cultivate joy, awareness, and connection.”
A brief moment of silence follows.

***

### 3. Shared Intention or Spoken Phrase (3–5 minutes)

Participants repeat a simple, secular phrase together (three times) -

• “May we meet with presence, kindness, and openness.”
• “Together, we practice listening and connection.”
• “We gather to cultivate joy—within ourselves and among one another.”
• "May all beings be well, peaceful, and happy."

***

### 4. Guided Meditation (10–12 minutes)

A short, accessible meditation focusing on:

• Breath awareness
• Noticing moments of ease or joy
• Expanding awareness from self → group → community

Language remains neutral and optional (“If it feels right for you…”).

***

### 5. Reading: Creating Sustainable Social & Communal Harmony (10–15 minutes)

A selected passage is read aloud from the book: The Buddha's Teaching on Social and Communal Harmony - By Bhikku Bodhi (bring your copy if you have one. Available on Kindle too)
Guidance:

• Read slowly
• Allow pauses
• Invite quiet reflection afterward

Optional prompt before the reading:
“Listen for what resonates—there’s no need to agree with everything.”

***

### 6. Reflection & Group Discussion (20–30 minutes)

Facilitated, open conversation grounded in lived experience.
Guiding questions:

• What ideas or phrases stayed with you?
• How do these themes show up in everyday relationships or community life?
• What supports harmony when differences arise?

Emphasize curiosity, not debate.

***

### 7. Community Sharing Circle (10–15 minutes)

Participants may share reflections, insights, or personal experiences.
Agreements (spoken briefly):

• Sharing is optional
• Speak from personal experience
• Listen without interrupting
• Respect confidentiality

A gentle bell or timer may support equitable sharing.

***

### 8. Closing Reflection (5 minutes)

A short closing pause or gratitude reflection.
Closing words:
“As we close, we carry this sense of presence and connection into our daily lives and communities.”
The candle is extinguished, marking the end of the gathering.

***

### 9. Informal Connection (Optional)

Time for tea, conversation, or quiet departure.🌸