March 8, 2003


There are some places that seem to have absorbed the commitment of the
people who work there. Just walking into Ledgehill, I wanted to learn and
teach. Even blanketed in snow, it is a beautiful retreat where I can
imagine great discoveries being made. Ledgehill is a training center (or
"centre" in Canada -- Ledgehill is just outside the city of Halifax) that is
hosting our upcoming EQ Certification in June.

Lea Brovedani is an EQ advocate in Halifax, Charles Bower is the CEO of
Ledgehill. The three of us met, ostensibly to discuss logistics. Instead,
we talked about the latest books, our challenges in helping people create
change, and the power of experiential learning.

Secluded in nature with comfortable guest-rooms and a home-like comfort, we
lounged in front of the fire and passed hours in minutes talking about how
to help people tap into the power of their authentic selves. Quickly it
became clear we were meeting as kindred spirits enjoying the thrill of
learning and questioning.

In some ways, I am cynical. I find that I don't expect most organizations
to "practice what they preach." When we first started Six Seconds, I called
about 30 nonprofits doing work related to EQ education to tell them we
existed, and that we were interested in partnering with other organizations.
While a small number appreciated the call, in general I got a clear message
that they had no interest in anything new.

That experience helped shape the way Six Seconds responds to people's
requests for help and partnership. We always assume that they're asking
with the highest and best intentions, and that there is most likely a way
that we can be mutually supportive. I ask myself if saying "yes" will
benefit people to be more wise and caring.

So, we're constantly attempting to partner with both for-profit and
non-profit organizations that are in business to support growth, learning,
and caring. Over and over, I've felt incredibly frustrated by the number of
opportunities wasted because it is so hard to find people genuinely
interested in collaboration -- usually, one party wants to "do their thing"
and let the others buy or sell that service. Likewise, I've been
disappointed by organizations that seem more concerned with protecting
themselves than serving their constituents. It's an intractable, dangerous
problem that probably comes from feelings of scarcity and also from pride.


Living your values is incredibly difficult for an individual. For an
organization, it seems nearly impossible, Given my growing cynicism, it's
always a bit of a surprise when I find a company or organization that is
truly open, and where I see the stated values alive in the business. I felt
it strongly at Ledgehill -- and without even seeing a course, I know I'd
find great value in their training.

I'm fascinated by the incredible power of that kind of integrity, and I'm
strongly committed to keeping our organization living our mission. Now I
find myself looking forward to the week in Ledgehill as much as the
conference! Partly, I admit, to see what happens as the last days of winter
fade and Charles' gardens begin to bloom. Mostly, though, to luxuriate in
the feelings that come with authenticity and collaboration.

In partnership,
- Josh

For more information about Ledgehill: http://www.ledgehill.com

For more about the Certification Course: http://6seconds.org/training

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It is a big help when readers share these messages with potentially
interested colleagues or groups! Just keep this part too:
©2003, Joshua Freedman; Six Seconds
Six Seconds EQ Network: Inspiring emotional wisdom.

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About the author:
As the Director of Programs for Six Seconds, Josh travels around the world
collaborating with EQ experts and leaders sharing enthusiasm and vision to
create positive and productive schools, organizations, and communities. Josh
is a co-author of the Self-Science EQ Curriculum (http://Self-Science.com)
and Editor of both EQToday.com and 6seconds.org.
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