SUMAH gathers for the purpose of embracing balanced, harmonious relationships within ourselves and with others. There is no particular spiritual or religious affiliation nor requirement for participation. We typically schedule this gathering for approximately two hours at or near the time of New Moon. New moon is an introspective time of explorations and beginnings.

Throughout the year we are influenced by -- and experience to varying degrees -- a progression of energies inherent in natural cycles, as we are indeed of nature. Typically, a specific sense of energy is associated with each month, or moon cycle from New Moon to New Moon. The Full Moon occurs midway through each cycle and is the transition point between gradually increasing energy and gradually decreasing energy.

Upon sharing thoughts and feelings regarding these energy shifts throughout the year, SUMAH participants identify 12 energies (three per season) that form this annual cycle.

• WINTER:   Centering, Envisioning, and Committing
• SPRING:   Intending, Activating, and Creating
  
• SUMMER: Connecting, Cultivating, and Guiding
• AUTUMN:  Manifesting, Honoring, and Preserving

Conversation around each monthly topic within the context of the relevant energy is as refreshing as it is interesting. Sharing this way integrates the wisdom of our respective experiences with a renewed sense of "beginners mind," thereby keeping us engaged and sometimes delighted.

SUMAH meets in person and is open to those who express interest in mutually agreed-upon topics. We welcome those who come with open hearts and minds in the attitude of love, honor, and respect. In coming together we actively select and discern thoughts, beliefs, and discussions, in order to cultivate harmony, healing, and wholeness. We, therefore, gather together to support each other’s growth, as well as to be supported by one another. Our Guiding Principles nurture and sustain our thoughts, words, and deeds.

Honoring the universality of wisdom, we share in the facilitation of the teachings. Experiential activities are welcome since we recognize learning and remembering in many different ways. Participants are welcome to bring a notepad or journal to record personally meaningful impressions. In general terms, we recognize that

                    • We are sharing sacred space on common ground,
                    • We are connected with one another and the whole,
                    • We are responsible for aligning thought, word, and deed.


Gathering Format

We follow a similar format from gathering to gathering, while allowing for growth and creativity. A typical gathering lasts approximately two hours and follows the format outlined below:

• Welcoming:             Recognize and give thanks for all who are present
• Purpose:                  To embrace balanced, harmonious relationships within ourselves/with others
• Music:                      Sing or play music to acknowledge our inner and outer journeys
• Silence:                   Focus on breathing for a moment of centering and balancing
• Energy:                    Discuss briefly the guiding energy of the cycle and share insights
• Monthly Topic:         Share conversation around chosen topic (facilitator volunteers in advance)
• Share Responses:    Share what touches us and how we can assimilate insights
• Prayer:                     Lifting up one's self and/or others for healing of relationships and protection
• Closing:                    A circle of presence

   Note:                       You are invited to call for more information, details, and/or clarity.