While journalling last night, I had a realisation that our ultimate goal in using circle process is to become the Centre — an embodiment of neutral acceptance, greater intent, and a hub that holds things together. When we say that our ultimate reliance in a circle-based group is on Wholeness or Centre or Something Greater than ourselves, I now feel that we’re relying on our Best Selves, the Centre/Wholeness that we truly are.
The above photo shows me lighting a candle in our centre at a circle practicum in 2008. Now I have a sense that I was/am doing my best (with varying degrees of success) to remember the welcoming hearth within myself.
Evolutionary Tarot & Circle Ways 
yes! good idea, good words.. when I light a candle, I light my own inner center..
with intent to proceed from that blessed, trustworthy place.
To align ourselves with the centre/intent/greater something of the circle is a way to remind ourselves of our own centre and of the Great Centre. No wonder circle process is so powerful. Christina Baldwin says that the moment one walks into a setting arranged as a circle, the shape/archetype begins to work one immediately.
Hi James:
Great insight!
Thanks, Aurora. What do you think of when you reflect on the idea of yourself as centre?
Your photo reminds me somewhat of a Buddhist laying out a sand mandala.