One of the core practices of collective wisdom is seeing whole systems. This requires us to step out of our particular bubble and ask essential questions, to diagnose critical relationships within a system, and to work in subtle realms, including what is not immediately apparent. Most significantly, seeing whole systems asks us to embrace both the light and shadow of human interactions, having faith that greater coherence and healthy functioning communities can be a result.

On February 1, Iowa voters will cast ballots in caucuses throughout that state. Political and media pundits will be making grand pronouncements and throwing confusing percentages around like darts in an English pub. In the context of seeing whole systems, I question whether the Republican caucuses are a valid reflection of our democracy or a dangerous distortion. The national consequences are significant, as is our own ability to make sense of the chaos. Please share with friends as a healthy dose of medicine during feverish times. Read More.