The Elders Story

As a member of the UK council of elders I received a beautiful message about
The Elders Story. With my date of birth in 1943 I am en elder myself. I love being an elder. I do not want to pretend that I am still "young". What you are about to read is inspiring me.

Bruno




The Elders are an independent group of eminent global leaders, brought together by Nelson Mandela, who offer their collective influence and experience to support peace building, help address major causes of human suffering and promote the shared interests of humanity.
The Elders story
The story of the Elders started in a conversation between the entrepreneur Richard Branson and the musician Peter Gabriel. The idea they discussed was a simple one. In an increasingly interdependent world – a global village – could a small, dedicated group of independent elders help to resolve global problems and ease human suffering?
For inspiration, they looked to traditional societies, where elders often help to share wisdom and resolve disputes within communities. They took their idea to Nelson Mandela, who agreed to support it. With the help of Graça Machel and Desmond Tutu, Mandela set about bringing the Elders together.
Prospective members were invited to join on the basis of a distinct set of criteria. Firstly, and most importantly, they should be independent. They should have earned international trust, demonstrated integrity and built a reputation for inclusive, progressive leadership.
Mandela announced the formation of the Elders in July 2007, on the occasion of his 89th birthday, at a ceremony in Johannesburg. During the ceremony, he described the mission of the group:
"The Elders can speak freely and boldly, working both publicly and behind the scenes. They will reach out to those who most need their help. They will support courage where there is fear, foster agreement where there is conflict and inspire hope where there is despair." Nelson Mandela.
How do they work?
The Elders amplify the voices of those who work hard to be heard, challenge injustice, stimulate dialogue and debate and help others to work for positive change in their societies.
The Elders do not hold public office and have no political or legislative power. Because they are not bound by the interests of any single nation, government or institution, they are free to speak boldly and with whomever they choose on any issue, and to take any action that they believe is right.
When undertaking initiatives, the Elders are committed to listening to the views of all groups and individuals – and especially women and young people. The Elders work both publicly and behind the scenes and at all levels - local, national and international - lending support and advice when invited, and sometimes when it is not.
Read more at http://www.theelders.org/initiatives

Imagine a circle of men

Imagine a circle of men where every one listens, not only to what you say, but also to what is behind what you say.
Every one is in tune with your voice, your emotion, your energy and every one is intent on receiving everything you communicate.
A circle of men where every one listens to hear the very best in you, even when you cannot hear it in yourself.

Imagine a circle of men which will remind hold you of your commitments, so you can hold yourself accountable and keep moving forward toward your dreams and goals.
A circle who reminds you of your commitments and holds you accountable without judgment when you miss the mark.

Imagine a circle of men which is totally curious about your dreams and aspirations, about what it is that makes you tick, what you value, what you are most passionate about in life. A circle that will help clarify your goals and provide tools for action and learning that lead you to the life you want.

Imagine an experience where you finally break free of those limiting beliefs that sabotage you, where those beliefs are noticed for what they really are and where the powerful part of you is called forth with a new set of beliefs.

Imagine a circle where you can experience and develop a new leader within yourself. A circle where it is safe to be who you really want to be.

If this calls to you, get in touch with Bruno on brunosdogs@gmail.com or call
00 34 690.19 19 76

With thanks to MKP.sa.

(extracted from Co-active coaching by Withworth, Kimsey House, Sandahl)