As we move down the left side of the U, we deepen into an empathetic stance in which we listen now with an open mind AND an open heart.

As we begin to sense together with others, we are able to see things from over their shoulder, broadening our own perception by beginning to see it through another's eyes.

We begin to see that we are connected with others in networks that we did not perceive fully. As we begin to open heart and mind, we see how our thoughts and actions have an impact on others. Sometimes this may be the first time we realize that we are connected at all.

As we see ourselves and our relationship to others in new ways, we can begin to see the system in new ways as well. As we change the frame, previously unregarded elements may come into focus.

dia=through
logos=meaning
We achieve greater understanding and empathy for others as we share, through reflection and inquiry of others' viewpoints. The goal is to create a new shared meaning or mental model through which we can together agree on a vision and direction.

We may be surprised by what we find when we look past the surface, and challenge our own assumptions and judgments.

At Level 3, I no longer see things from the perspective of I-in-It, but from I-in-You. I am no longer separate from you, but connected with you and with all in the fabric of the universe.

The resistance we feel as we try to move into an Open Heart stance is the Voice of Cynicism (VOC). This is the voice that seeks to shield our open heart by yielding to cynicism, arrogance and callousness. I cannot have an open heart if I tell myself that I don't care, that the other does not matter as much as I (or my judgments and assumptions) do.

In the stance of an Open Heart, we can begin to distill what is essential, what we can agree needs to to be done. What are the opportunities we need to engage NOW?

In Open Mind, we experience unconditional witnessing. In Open Heart, we deepen to unconditional and personal love. The sacred and divine in me sees and acknowledges the sacred and divine in you.