Between Us

-Waywaymegwun

About Waywaymegwun (Randall Charboneau) HERE

Welcome to the realm of SIMPLE—Setting In Motion Powerful Liberating Events—a dynamic community where hearts and minds intertwine across the globe through transformative practices. Dive into the essence of SIMPLE, connect with our spirited community, share your experiences, and behold the inspiring, transformative power that pulses through the process of SIMPLE.

Purpose of the Tao of SIMPLE Newsletter

• Celebrate people and organizations that are engaged in authentic transformative social change

• Connect with people who have and are engaged in the process of Setting In Motion Powerful Liberating Events (SIMPLE)

• Engage in activities that reflect the SIMPLE Paradigm

SIMPLE Dynamics of Transformation HERE

Dear Dynamic Balance Community,

We are thrilled to share some incredible milestones and moments from our journey that unfolded in 2023. And some plans for 2024. November 4, 2023, marked the launch of our collaborative effort, "Dynamic Balance: The Tao of Forging Individual and Social Transformation." This book encapsulates the essence of our combined 77 years of experience in the realms of individual and social transformation. It is an accessible culmination of passion and dedication, founded on the belief that social transformation is ultimately a personal journey.

In September 2023, we had the privilege of presenting Dynamic Balance concepts at the International Society for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (ISPCAN) at the 2023 Edinburgh Congress in Scotland. This global platform allowed us to connect with inspiring individuals from around the world, sharing our insights and providing mindfulness strategies to strengthen caregiver resilience. We recognize the vital role caregivers play in safeguarding our children, and our goal is to empower them to stay healthy amidst the challenges they face.

A special highlight of the trip to Scotland for Brad was that his son, Isaac, accompanied him. It was a momentous occasion as Isaac celebrated his 15th birthday while there. This experience added a personal touch to our Dynamic Balance journey, emphasizing the interconnectedness of family and the importance of passing on the torch of positive change to the next generation. [Picture below is Brad and Isaac at the Legendry's Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh.]

In November, Arthur Lockhart was distinguished with the Order of Ontario award for his outstanding contributions to transforming the narrative surrounding childhood sexual abuse through The Gatehouse. This prestigious accolade, bestowed upon leaders who have demonstrated excellence and dedication in their respective endeavors, underscores Arthur’s remarkable impact on weaving threads of triumph through the tapestry of childhood trauma for tens of thousands of survivors. Read more about that HERE. 

[Picture below: The Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario and Chancellor of the Order of Ontario with Art and Brad.}

Another noteworthy achievement is on March 17, 2023 Brad earned his LivingWorks Bronze Pin for facilitating his 25th ASIST workshop (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training)! It is a tiny pin that holds great significance for Brad. Following his Total Laryngectomy in 2016, Brad was told by a surgeon not to expect to speak in front of an audience again. Brad, however, employed the concepts laid out in Dynamic Balance and defied that prediction. Read more about that experience HERE.

As we reflect on these recent achievements and experiences, we are reminded that transformation is an ongoing journey—one that requires collaboration, dedication, and a commitment to making a difference. We are grateful for the work being done by people connected to the Dynamic Balance community. And we look forward growing this community in 2024.

In gratitude and empowerment,

Arthur Lockhart and Brad Hutchinson

People Engaged in SIMPLE

“Stories are the reflection of the human soul. They remind us of our potential, of the driving possibilities of our existence.” S. Spencer 

Dr. Joe Mooney LLB, MA (Social Work), PG Dip (Teaching and Learning), PMSW Director of Professional Practice

Since 2011, Doctor Mooney has delved into adult disclosures of childhood sexual abuse, inspired by Ireland's clerical abuse scandals. His experiences in law, child protection, and academia fueled his belief in responsible research that benefits stakeholders and survivors. His focus on a 'social model' of disclosure aims to address barriers individuals face, emphasizing societal and state roles in fostering environments supportive of disclosure. Building on dialogical approaches and co-production, Mooney’s work aims to promote healing and understanding, echoing insights from a visit to The Gatehouse in Toronto. More on Doctor Mooney here.  

Mira Kopanarovmore, Artist, Communications Specialist

Mira Kopanarov, a seasoned Bulgarian-Canadian artist and communications specialist, channels over two decades of diverse experience into transformative leadership. Armed with an HBA in Communication Studies, she's navigated government, non-profits, real estate, AI, and mixed reality. Following a burnout-induced shift, Mira turned her focus to holistic communications for social change, using breathwork, mindfulness, and storytelling to address burnout-related issues. Leading a program integrating mindful communication in business, she aligns with ESG practices for inclusive environments, mental health, and lasting social impact. Mira also hosts nature-inspired breathwork retreats and advocates for social causes through her art, emphasizing the power of human connectedness. More on Mira Here.

Elizabeth Shane, Author, Poet, Public Speaker

Elizabeth draws strength from her journey as a survivor of child sexual abuse. Initially discovering creative expression through a community choir, she found solace and confidence in singing, drama, and creative writing. Her debut book, 'Silhouette of a Songbird,' unveils the healing power of poetry, a medium she embraced to articulate past pain. Elizabeth shares her story through talks, podcasts, and writings, fostering hope and breaking the silence around childhood trauma. Read more about Elizabeth HERE.

Organizations Engaged in SIMPLE

The Gatehouse : A Safe Place Where Everyone Has a Voice

Survivors Council of Canada: Holistic Prevention, Healing, Transformative Justice

The Global Poetry Movement: Connecting and Healing Through Poetry

The International Society for the Prevention of Child Abuse & Neglect: Improving Child Protection Research & Practice

A Breeze of Hope: Providing a safe haven for survivors, working towards healing, justice, and ultimately, eradicating the horrors of sexual violence against children.

Brave Movement: The Brave Movement is a survivor-centered global movement fighting to end childhood sexual violence.

Upcoming Events: 

• January 25, Online workshop: Mindfulness and the Way of Transforming Vicarious Trauma into Triumph for Defence for Children International Canada. (Lockhart/Hutchinson)

• January 25, Take Back Your Voice Poetry Workshop 5-7pm In Person at The Gatehouse. More Infor HERE

•  Jan 27, 7-8:30 Family Court System: Men’s Challenges | 4th Year Observance | International Day For The Elimination Of Violence Against Men And Boys: Live on: FB, YouTube, and Instagram

• August 18-21 ISPCAN SWEDEN2024, Sweden Congress: Scientific Program . Calling for Abstracts Here (deadline January 31st): In our evolving global landscape, with unfolding challenges spanning the COVID pandemic, climate crises, economic downturns, to the devastating impacts of armed conflict and war, our collective mission to champion the rights and safety of children becomes increasingly paramount.