In the contexts of our practice of examining the nature of self and of a recent conference on "Othering and Belonging," we look at ways that we create an "other." We may do this in terms of social groups (according to race, age, gender, religion, ability/disability, educational level, etc.), interpersonally, or in terms of parts of oneself (I "other" my fear or shame or brilliance). This week we focus on "othering" (the "other" is often noticed, but not really known or seen), how to track our own ways of othering, and how to work with and transform othering, opening to greater compassion, wisdom, and connection.

After a brief review of the theme of "othering", we look some more forms of "othering" and how we practice in examining "othering" in ourselves. We then explore the area exponentially in an exercise, followed by discussion.

After an introductory outline of the nature of creating an "other" we look at three ways of practicing: 1. Studying the process of "othering" in oneself, in relation to both others and self; 2. Countering the process of othering and 3. Developing farther universal belonging, the "beloved community".

Set in the larger contexts of the importance of ethical practice, we focus on the meaning and practical of non-harming, with some reflections on responding to the killings of nine African Americans at a bible study class in Charleston, South Carolina.