Carpet Work with Rob Johnson by Arleen Prairie

On Saturday, February 9th, I was surprised to find I was the only woman in attendance at a WWI and MKP group lead by Rob Johnson MKP Kuempel Center in Chicago, Illinois. During check-in I looked into the dozen faces around me and conveyed my fear of being supported by this group of men. I told the group I was used to being ably supported by women in my group work, and wondered aloud if I could trust this group of men for that same support.

As I came forward to do my work I also told Rob and the group that I feared the aggressive and extremely angry warrior work I had observed that day. Rob heard me; he responded by asking me that if there was a need to express the warrior side, if I would be willing to try this out. In my work the issue became that I can stand up to my dad. And it was warrior work that I accomplished. What I was resisting as I observed others' work was my own!

The result was that I felt completely supported all the way through this day as the members of this group became my allies. I experienced Rob as an extremely capable leader sensing the issue at hand, holding the experience of the individual (including myself) and moving each person doing work
gently through the process. Rob capably lead by example, and shared the leadership by collaborating intuitively with the all the men who chose to lead. In addition, he added a unique and gentle touch of humor.

During this Saturday workshop, with Rob Johnson as leader, I felt I achieved a significant further learning of self-and this would also be true for any initiated woman (or man) who wants to do work and/or become more capable in leading carpet work.

Rob was initiated in 1992 and has been an active participant in MKP ever since. He has staffed more than 60 NWTA's and has facilitated many I-Groups and IE Groups (men and women together).

Rob recently earned a Masters degree in Professional Counseling, and he is now pursuing his calling through coaching and mentoring. Rob is also available for private coaching and can be contacted at 312.316.3366.

Arleen Prairie
WWTW August 2002, Windsor, CA
arleenprairie@sbcglobal.net