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Relational Landscaping

The third thing

Use a poem, object, or shared text as an indirect doorway into inquiry.

Explore the concept

A third thing gives people a shared focus while allowing different meanings to emerge. It can help a person reflect without having to disclose directly. Let the text or object prompt curiosity, retain its source, and resist telling participants the interpretation they should reach.

A practice to try

Choose a poem from the chapter and ask which word or image invites attention. Allow reflection to remain private.

Explore it in the book

Companion guidance by Scott Simpson and Sharla Steever. Consult the book alongside these resources; activities and summaries do not replace the complete book.