It is as if we each represent a diverse array of streams of potential self… and that place, habit, and relation act somewhat like a lens that draws these streams into coherent expression. It is easier to ‘know how and who to be’ when one is in a context that defines, elicits or enforces various coherence options.

We learn this capacity, to be drawn into coherence by others and contexts, in our early infancy. For many, our Mother is the source of our first experiences and behavioral paradigms, and can be understood as the being who first invites coherence and rewards its appearance. This process most often involves close, face-to-face eye contact. Her invitations and rewards must deeply encharacter the resulting array of coherence potentials of the child.

We call each other into being, or unique modes of specific and mutual coherence. This is also true of place, and perhaps even of time, which act simultaneously if not entirely passively.

When the streams of potential are disturbed, the self struggles to emerge in a coherent fashion. In such trials, we may be alienated or estranged from ourselves, for we cannot truly recognize a specific self with which to associate our familiar relations, evaluations, expectations, &c. We learn to call the streams into coherence. Slowly, uniquely… through time and trial… we learn to become that catalyst that draws the streams into coherence.

We are streams that in their coherence invite coherence.