There are two things that keep popping up in my mind today – peace-building and flexibility. On some level, the two are connected
I am involved in a peacebuilding initiative through my Rotary club. We have been meeting for almost two years, seeking to provide a model for peacebuilding as we listen to and learn from each other through deep and difficult conversations. The committee was formed in response to the events following the murder of George Floyd. One of the most helpful things to come out of it for me is the fact that, while my experience and your experience may be different, they are equally valid and worthy of being heard. AND, it is only when I listen with an open heart that I can truly understand your experience.
I keep drawing the “Flexibility” card from the oracle deck. I will admit that in many circumstances, I am not a flexible person. No matter in what circumstances I find myself, I am prone to quick judgement and wanting to make things right. At home, I want things my way – organized and done correctly – that is, my way. I even alphabetize my spices and color code my closet. On the other hand, in my dealings outside my home, I am more open and more inclined to be flexible. It is easier to see another’s point of view when I don’t live with them.
I don’t always listen with an open heart. But heart listening invites flexibility. When I truly hear what another person is saying, I am more able to see both sides of an issue. I am able to understand that other person on a deeper level. I am able to hear the validity of their experience and see it as just as valuable as my own. I am more able to suspend judgement and see all sides of a situation. In short, being flexible and open invites peace into my own heart. And it is only when I am at peace that I can bring peace to the table.
In this polarized world, it is not always easy to truly listen to the experiences of others. It is hard to see that my experience is not the only one. It is hard not to make assumptions based on how I see things or what seems self-evident to me. I must constantly practice heart-listening and flexibility as I work to become a peace builder in the world.
