A Jamaican saying characterises our Caribbean culture: “mout mek fi sey anyting”, meaning that the mouth can easily express words without the attendant action.
Pastors readily preach up a storm; parents verbally give strict instructions, sports coaches constantly explain techniques, and politicians use persuasive language. And friends, forever give verbal advice.
What is often lacking, weak or limited is the company of accompaniment. Accompaniment involves much more than words, such as preaching, instructing, or explaining; it fundamentally initiates a relationship with someone or a group and journeys with them in their growth and development. Consider these Ten (10) Commandments of Accompaniment.
- Initiating and building a trusting relationship.
- Re-enforcing verbal teachings, instructions, and explanations with personal action.
- Articulating a vision.
- Establishing essential values.
- Wholistic development – physical, spiritual, emotional, and social.
- Avoiding comparison.
- Authentic witness through action.
- Deep awareness of persons being accompanied.
- Mourning losses/failures.
- Celebrating achievements.
Remember, words such as preaching, teaching, instructions, or explanations are supremely inadequate to facilitate CHANGE.
The art and spirit of ACCOMPANIMENT is the password to authentic change and development.
Beloved Reflections 