This is where the others begin to master deep listening. It truly is a process and takes dedication and time. Successful dialogue cannot be a passing fancy or hobby. It must be a preoccupation. Commitment to each other and to the process is important, as in any relationship.
People come in for different reasons.
In our experience, especially in the beginning, people came and then left out of disinterest or impatience, or because they were too busy or didn't think the activity would make a difference. Some were afraid of judgment from within their own cultural, religious, or spiritual communities. Some could not open themselves up to hear any but their own narratives. Some simply sought allies for their cause. In time, for us, a devoted base developed and stayed.