The Ritual of the Large and Small Bell

Two hand bells are placed in the center of a small, low-lying circular table. One bell, large and low. The other, small and high.

When (and if) you feel like sharing and the large bell is in the center of the table you take hold of it, ring it, then move it to the edge of the table's circle nearest you. Then you share.

While sharing, if another feels like commenting or responding to your share, the other takes hold of the small bell, rings it lightly one time, then moves it midway between the center and the edge of the table nearest them.

When you feel like pausing your share for the midway bell response, you move the large bell midway between your edge and the table's center with a single ring.

Then the other moves the small bell to their edge for a short share or dialog with you. When they are done the other moves the small bell back to the center of the table with a single ring.

Then you move the large bell back to your edge with a single ring and resume sharing.

When you are finished with your share, you take hold of the large bell, ring it, then move it back to the center.

Now both bells are in the center and another may take hold of the large bell and begin their share.

You may share anything you like: a dream; some text or music written by your or another; an painting or image; an idea; a memory; silence or song; improvise; acting, dance; ...

Harold Carr 01 2005

The Ritual of the Large and Small Bell