"These concepts of equality - as sameness, and as different but equal - can be seen in the pervasive values of Earth cultures. Equality as sameness emphasizes unity among human beings. Linked to this emphasis is the notion of preservation, preservation of the united whole. The recognition of differences among humans is indicative of the values of change and diversity. Indeed, the whole of Earth's history can be understood as a struggle to achieve a balance between preservation and change in the status quo."

At this point Shedra stopped. Timala indicted to Nirva that she wished to inquire further. Nirva smiled at Timala in acknowledgment, then nodded to Shedra. "Shedra, you have given us two Earth perspectives of equality: equality as sameness, and equality as different but equal. There were, however, at least two other views: equality as parity, and equality as sovereignty. Will you be addressing these today?" "I am aware of these other notions of equality, Timy," replied Shedra. "While I did not intend to deal with them today, I can do so if our circle agrees." The other members of the circle touched the centre of their foreheads with their thumbs indicating their agreement.

Shedra spoke: "I think that we should begin by clarifying what we mean by parity and sovereignty." A loud sigh came from Zadkiel. "Why are we so concerned about having a definition of a concept? Why can't we have as many definitions of equality as suits the variety of circumstances in which the issue of equality arises?" Romena looked at Zadkiel, her eyebrows very much raised. "Have you ever thought that there may be a connection between standard definitions and the maintenance of social order, Zadkiel," she asked sarcastically? "Yes, I have," Zadkiel retorted, "and the price we pay for social order is mediocrity." Shedra interjected at this point. This was not the way she had planned her presentation. Different ideas were straying in from all over. "How did we move from equality to mediocrity?" she asked, trying to sound calm and composed. "Via Zadkiel," said Timala, laughingly. "That sounds like the name of an ancient Earth railway company," quipped Romena. Everyone laughed, even Zadkiel.

Nivra looked up at the skv. "How nourishing are the rays of Lanello's suns," she said. A silence fell upon the circle. The issues raised had to be addressed - but only after the circle had developed a suitable discussion form. The energy of human life streams was too precious - a fact that their Earth ancestors ignored to their detriment.

Nirva rose to her feet. The others did likewise. "I suggest that we rest for a while, after which we can do some precipitation exercises, and then return to the questions raised by Timala and Zadkiel." As they left the circle one by one, the rose that Nirva had traced in the sand became a brilliant blood red organic rose. "How nourishing are the rays of Lanello's suns."

PENSÉES DU CERCLE DE NIRVA

Par Paula Angela DeCoito
(Sommaire)

L'immense ciel bleu et clair leur servait de tableau; le sable blanc de la plage leur servait de sièges. Le clapotis de l'océan, ponctué par le cri régulier des mouettes aux plumage couleur fuchsia était leur musique. Nirva parlait doucement à ses élèves, mêlant harmonieusement le rythme de sa voix aux sons qui l'entouraient. A mesure qu'elle parlait, elle dessinait lentement do doiqt une rose sur le sable.

"Le chemin qui menait à l'égalité pour les femmes, sur la planète Terre, était tout hérissé d'obstacles. De gigantesques rochers, vieux de plusieurs siècles, bar- raient fermement le chemin à nos mères. Semblables aux mutations organiques tourmentées d'une galaxie despote, ces rochers que devaient franchir nos mères pour faire s'épanouir leur potentiel de femmes s'élevaient à des hauteurs colossales. Au-delà de ces monstrueux obstacles il y avait une grille argentée, qui s'ouvrait sur un Nouvel ordre économique pour nos ancêtres femmes. Dans ce nouvel ordre, l'énergie si caractéristique et si précieuse des femmes était appréciée, nécessaire au maintien et à l'évolution des grands courants de vie.Ce nouvel ordre reposait sur une valeur fonda- mentale: la liberté d'être, et de devenir. Mais pour obtenir cette liberté, les femmes de la planète Terre durent ériger La Grande Grille de l'égalité, ce qui fut l'une des tâches les plus longues et les plus ardues de toutes pour elles...