If possible I use a talking piece that somehow connects with the story of the day. I always tell the story early in a class, before introducing the talking piece. If the connection is obvious, I ask participants why they think I chose that particular object for a talking piece.  It’s a simple way to get them focused on the story and have an easy success engaging it.

But I had trouble coming up with something for the story of “Sarah Gives Birth” that was an obvious connection. I just didn’t have any baby things around the house.

Then I remembered an eyeglass case I got in Cameroon a few years ago. I have never used it much, but I love it because of the memories of that trip (a biblical storytelling mission) and the wonderful painted design that decorates it: mother with child. Perfect! The soft cloth felt gentle to hold as we passed it around the Circle.