A New Kind of Partnership

We invite you to redefine the concept of partnership.

In the past, partnerships were defined as transactions driven by the question, “What can I get from this?” Within this paradigm, each act demanded an equal reciprocation, whether economic or political in nature.  Our current world is a reflection of such partnerships.

Fueled by myopic materialism, each interaction has become a fixed exchange that does not go beyond short-term gratification. This is the reason behind the continued exploitation of humanity and ecology, where we mine the earth for circuitry at the expense of the water, air, trees and other life-forms that sustain the existence of humanity. And we wonder why our experiences today are devoid of spirit and sacredness. Instead of coming from a place of lack, we must recognize our abundance, whether in terms of time, energy, talents or resources.

Recognizing this abundance, our question now becomes, “What can I give towards the creation of something better?”

In this light, partnerships become opportunities to express our deepest passions and highest aspirations. Thus, we are empowered to support initiatives that are transformative on both a personal and collective level.  EMERGE!2010 is one such initiative.

In the spirit of dialogue, let us explore what this new partnership could mean.

Given the immediacy of this work in this point in time, what is needed to make this happen? Where can you come in? How can you contribute towards the realization of this vision?

There are three possible points of entry: as enablers, as participants, or as collaborators.

Choosing to be an enabler means that you can provide material requirements, whether in cash or in kind.

As participants, the sharing of your time, talents, ideas, and energy is the very essence of this endeavor, which is founded on the idea that innovation can only arise in communion with others.

As collaborators, you recognize your capacity to both enable and participate, embracing the opportunity to shape and co-create the initiative itself.

It is important to understand that there is no true dichotomy between serving others and serving oneself.  Ultimately, it is only about serving the highest good. It is no longer about the bottom line. It is no longer about fighting against something. When we act for something, everything else follows.

In the spirit of transparency, the exact amounts required to stage the EMERGE!2010 Week can be found in the charts below. ALAB-DIWA, SIKLAB and SACRED SPACES are completely free and open to the public. Although participants of the EMERGE! Training for Cultural Creatives are only asked to pay within the Php 5000-8,500 range, the true logistical cost per head is at least twice that amount. This necessitates the support of social entrepreneurs who understand the need for widespread cultural transformation. If you are called to support this endeavor, investments in cash or kind will be gladly accepted. Donations will be accepted through http://emerge.chipin.com/emerge-conference, or Bank of the Philippine Islands, C/A 3180- 0067-52, under Peoples Assembly for Genuine Alternatives to Social Apathy Inc.