From what’s been said and heard at the Open Forum and since,  it’s clear that many have been inspired by William Blake’s vision of what a different world might look like, and wondered about its relevance to  our local communities.

So, from his legacy of writings and drawings, the following thoughts have been put together about what he might have advised our new enterprise if he’d been able to join us on 3rd April……

Aaaah, a fledgling enterprise seeking to weave threads of inclusivity into the very fabric of society! 

William Blake, a visionary who championed the marginalized and saw divinity in every human form, would likely offer counsel that resonates with both fierce idealism and practical compassion. 

Here's a glimpse into the wisdom he might impart:   

On Vision and Purpose:

• "See a World in a Grain of Sand, And a Heaven in a Wild Flower, Hold Infinity in the palm of your hand, And Eternity in an hour."  He'd urge you to never lose sight of the profound potential within each individual you aim to serve.  Your enterprise is not just about transactions; it's about unlocking that inherent worth.   

• "The Vision of Christ that thou dost see Is my Vision's Greatest Enemy."  Be wary of rigid dogma or societal norms that limit your understanding of inclusivity.   Embrace diverse perspectives and challenge conventional boundaries.  Your vision should be expansive and ever-evolving.

• "He who binds to himself a joy does the winged life destroy;  but he who kisses the joy as it flies lives in eternity's sunrise."  Don't cling too tightly to a fixed model.   Be flexible, adapt to the unique needs of the individuals you serve, and find joy in the dynamic process of empowerment.   

On Action and Implementation:

• "Pity would be no more, If we did not make somebody poor."  Blake was deeply critical of systems that perpetuate inequality.  He would implore you to examine the root causes of exclusion and actively work to dismantle them through your enterprise model.  Ensure your practices empower and uplift, rather than inadvertently creating new dependencies.   

• "The strongest poison ever known came from Caesar's laurel crown."  Beware of the allure of power and prestige. True success lies not in hierarchical structures but in fostering a sense of shared ownership and mutual respect within your enterprise and the communities you serve.   

• "Labour well the minute particulars, attend to the little ones." Inclusivity isn't a broad stroke; it's found in the details.  Pay meticulous attention to the individual needs, experiences, and voices of those you aim to include. Small acts of genuine care and consideration will have a profound impact.   

On the Human Spirit:

• "All deities reside in the human breast." Recognise the inherent dignity and creativity within every person, regardless of their background or perceived limitations.  Your enterprise should be a space where these inner "deities" can flourish.   

• "What is now proved was once only imagin'd."  Don't be afraid to dream boldly and imagine new possibilities for inclusion.  The most transformative changes often begin with a seemingly impossible vision.

• "The man who never alters his opinion is like standing water, and breeds reptiles of the mind." Stay open to learning, evolving, and challenging your own assumptions about inclusivity.  Engage in continuous reflection and be willing to adapt your approach as you gain new understanding.   

In essence, William Blake would likely encourage your inclusive social enterprise to be a beacon of empathy, a catalyst for genuine connection, and a testament to the boundless potential that resides within every human heart. He would urge you to see beyond surface differences, to challenge societal constraints, and to build a world where all can thrive in their unique and glorious individuality.

He would most likely wish you well with your new and noble enterprise, and probably would support you all with a small donation of the price of a cup of coffee.