DHRD suicide survivor talking circles invites those affected

RONAN — DHRD is hosting suicide survivor talking circles where those affected can speak freely about their issues and experiences. They meet on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Pache Community Center located on Terrace Lake Road; turn right on Beaverhead Lane and look for the beige doublewide trailer on the right side about a half mile.

The talking circle is a way for individuals to speak freely and have their problem heard in a sympathetic and supportive environment. A circle leader will start the meeting and each individual will have time to talk.

There are a few very simple guidelines that allow a talking circle to function:
    1. Only one person speaks at a time - only the person holding the talking stick may speak. Dialogues are not part of the circle, as they can become confrontational.
    2. Introduce yourself - it is polite to introduce yourself in the first round. Use your spirit name, if you have one; otherwise, use your given name.
    3. Speak from the heart - the speaker should address the circle from the heart, and may speak for as long as they need to, with respect for the time of others.
    4. Listen with respect - all people except the speaker listen attentively and give support to the speaker. Listening with the heart allows you to hear the true intent beneath what the speaker is saying. Listen in the way you expect others to hear you.
    5. What is said in the circle stays in the circle - never repeat anything that is said within the circle, unless you have the permission of the speaker.

For more information contact Roxana Colman-Herak at (406) 270-8631 or Raelynn Charlo at (406) 270-3451.