on being supported...

One thing that has really impressed and surprised me since starting up our community practice is the generosity we have seen from our clients. This outpouring takes shape sometimes as stuff, sometimes as service, sometimes as good feedback. Getting stuff has also become an experience of being supported.

When someone can see what you need, or could use, and can offer it, there is some deep acknowledgement there. Without blurring the lines of client/practitioner relationships, there is just this sort of kindness that permeates interactions. This feeling of being supported is immensely valuable to me especially when I consider that 8 months ago we didn't know a single person here in Boise, ID.

Many times, people have so much to offer but they don't see an opportunity to give, so being open to receiving helps. I have noticed that we are getting to know our clients a lot better when we appreciate, and accept what they have to offer. This seems to have helped us build trust with people. They also seem to take our guidance more readily when we have something to learn or appreciate from them.

Now, I know that this "getting stuff" is not an exclusive phenomenon of community acupuncture, but the opportunity for people to offer, I think, is very available in this type of setting. Our clinic is casual and comfortable, and friends often come in together. We find ourselves learning quite a lot about people just by them chatting a bit with each other at the beginning or end of treatments. And when someone asks me, as I am needling LI4, "How were those carrots I gave you last week?" it's natural for the bug of giving to spread.

My favorite thing I have gotten you may ask? Well, it would have to be the two dozen backyard farm fresh chicken eggs a week. But I am also looking forward to a handmade kaleidoscope that will be arriving soon.