26-25
By considering questions like these, people gain new respect for their own
abilities and knowledge. They awaken to the possibilities for change and for making
things better. They feel more equal to others, more self-confident, more fully
human!
That, at least, is the theory. Whether or not the discussions actually produce
this sort of ‘awakening’ will depend on the skill, attitude, and understanding of the
discussion leader, as well as on the characteristics of the particular group.
Maria de Zuhiga points out some of the difficulties that may arise:
“At the start, particularly in the first session, some groups will react somewhat
negatively, due to the fact that they are not used to this type of participation, but
rather to simply listening to speeches or ‘health talks’. Some persons may ask the
leader to ‘just tell us’ how things are, insisting that they themselves ‘know nothing’.
Others will see it as a waste of time. Some may become bored or annoyed, and
possibly walk out. Others may try to turn things into a joke. In any case, one has
to sort his way through these situations, little by little helping the group to adopt
the method and participate. If this happens, halfway through the series of pictures
people will grow enthusiastic.
“Some groups will not begin to take part as quickly as others, some will become
involved slowly, others rapidly. The leader will need to guide the discussion to
match the rhythm and speed of the group, in order that they fully grasp the points
that come out.
“Do not expect,
during the discussion
period, to touch
upon all the themes
that could relate to
the picture, for this
is impossible. In
any case, a sign of
success is to see that
members of the group
continue discussing
on their own, in small
groups, once the
session is over.
How many ways do you see that these people have changed
things around them to better meet their needs?
“Finally, remember
that people only fully
grasp new ideas when
they act on them—
when dialogue leads
them to act, observe,
reflect, and once again
act.”
Group discussions with pictures and questions like this help
build people’s confidence in themselves and their ability to
change things for the better. {From Where There Is No Doctor,
p. w26.)