A group of chipmunks wanted to build a stronger chipmunk community, so they decided they should have lunch and get to know each other a little better. They each shared their favorite place to eat. After listening to everyone’s favorites, Paxton shouted, “All of those ideas are stupid! I like Pine Nut Palace. That’s where we should eat. Come on!”

And they all went to Pine Nut Palace because they didn’t want to create a scene, and they wanted to keep Paxton as a friend. They followed a democratic process—everyone had a voice in the conversation. But the group gave up their individual wants and needs and let the loudest member make their decision for them.

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A group of chipmunks wanted to build a stronger chipmunk community, so they decided they should have lunch and get to know each other a little better. They each shared their favorite place to eat. All of them liked someplace different, and they each insisted on their own favorite spot. Paxton suggested, “Let’s each go to the place we like, have a nice meal alone, and then reconvene when we aren’t so hungry.”

They decided this was best, and each went off to their individual favorite spot. But life being what it is, they just kept going their separate ways and never got to know each other well enough to build a stronger chipmunk community. They gave up their need to be connected in order to follow their individual preferences.

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A group of chipmunks wanted to build a stronger chipmunk community, so they decided they should have lunch and get to know each other a little better. They each shared their favorite place to eat. Then, they took a vote in the usual chipmunk manner and Acorn Hut was the clear majority preference.

Paxton felt sad because no one else wanted to eat at Paxton’s favorite, Pine Nut Palace. The other chipmunks teased Paxton and threw little pebbles any time Paxton complained. And Paxton went away after the meal and started looking for a different group of chipmunk friends.

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A group of chipmunks wanted to build a stronger chipmunk community, so they decided they should have lunch and get to know each other a little better. They each shared their favorite place to eat. Then Paxton said, “It seems like there are a lot of us who like Acorn Hut, but that place is kind of pricey. Let’s take a vote.” So they voted in the usual chipmunk manner on whether or not to eat at Acorn Hut.

A very clear majority were in favor of eating at Acorn Hut, but Moxie spoke up and said, “I have an ethical objection to the crushed beetle Acorn Hut uses in their acorn paste. I’ll join you, but I won’t eat lunch. I’ll get something for myself later.” And they all agreed that they were happy Moxie would be with them.

Paxton was sad, though. “There’s no way I can join you. I can’t afford lunch at Acorn Hut.” But the other chipmunks said, “Don’t worry about it. We got you covered. We want you there.” Then Paxton felt happy and welcome.

And before they ever ate a bite of lunch, they were already on their way to building stronger chipmunk community.

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All of the stories reflect a democratic process where everyone’s voice is heard. A couple of stories also reflect exercising a right of conscience. But only one story reflects what it means to hold onto a vision for what a group hopes to co-create. Process alone didn’t manifest stronger chipmunk community. What are you centering in your communities?