Working together to design a process within a broad framework of principles and approaches is also the best way to ensure that the process chosen will suit the particular needs of those using it - and be effective. Each process must be home grown, must fit the particular needs of the community. The perseverance to make a consensus work emanates from the pride of ownership, of building it locally. Every effort should be made to encourage involvement and provide readily accessible information to foster informed decisions about involvement. Ownership of, and commitment to, an agreement is a function of directly participating in designing the process leading to the agreement and in shaping the outcome of the process.
Direct participation is the most effective means of voluntary participation.
Speaking through others often detracts from the vitality and sensitivity of being voluntary and fully engaged. Personal stores can be very powerful in shaping personal and public decisions and in building relationships. These stories are the primary basis of sharing information, ideas and feeling within circles. Direct participation generates new connection to others, provides opportunities to share visions, and to foster the skills to participate effectively. Special care must be given to elders and to survivors with special needs.