why doesn’t it cost money?
I am not entering this space to profit off those seeking connection or the education that we have been collectively deprived of. I understand that for many people, hosting events such as this is their primary source of income, or they are ensuring their expenses are covered so they are not out of pocket. I support people who choose to work in this way, while I choose not to work in this way…
I have paid for many circles and containers, and continue to do so. I know there is a lot of time, energy and money that goes into developing this work. As I journey into it myself, I see that in a capitalist economy, it is sensible to expect and plan for financial compensation.
personally, I do not align with the capitalist way, and I feel uncomfortable with the idea of contorting how I present my work to fit within this system. it is true that this work comes at a financial cost to me, though I tend to consider other ways of being that pre-date capitalism, and I am hoping to establish a way that I can be supported to continue this work sustainably, without charging an obligatory attendance cost. This comes in more than one form.
the first form is expressing that I am open to other forms of exchange that are not monetary. think of trading produce with a neighbour. if you grew many tomatoes and no cucumbers, and I grew many cucumbers and no tomatoes, we could trade. I am open to hearing what one may have to offer if a different sort of exchange is attractive for you.
the second form is by offering a transparent list of my expenses for all events, breaking this down to what it costs per person if the maximum number of spaces are filled, providing these figures to the attendees, and asking that those who are in a financial position to do so and deem this work a suitable use of their money, to support me with a monetary value that feels good for them.
it may seem foolish, if looked at through the lens of capitalism, to not set a price, to risk running out of money because I choose to hold these circles. there are parts of me that question how long I will be able to do this for, question if in a few months time, I’ll backtrack on my word and set an attendance cost. this may be possible. however, I do not feel that is the truth. a mantra i’ve carried for a decade is trust the process. it rings true inside my heart and gut that this is a trustworthy way to move into this space. it is what I crave in society, I notice I feel more comfortable exchanging money when I understand the costs. I hope this resonates with someone.
I trust the process and that those who are supported to support me will do so. and I trust that this will be enough.
all my love
sarah
p s
check out some work by Charles Eisenstein. his approach to exchange and economy is inspiring for me.
