Dialogue San Diego: Who Am I? Who Are We?

Sunday, December 17, 2017

Who Am I? Who Are We?

Walking around Windsor and Eaton, England, we came across a bevy or herd of swans. Several people with bread and crackers were shore side. The swans were very attentive! Grouped together, facing one direction, they made their intentions known!

I watched the beauty and strength of these creatures as they vied for food, each bird pushing forward, focusing on its individual needs.

As I watched this spectacle of coordinated chaos, I wondered:

How often do I focus solely on my individual needs?
When do I participate in a single-focused Groupthink or Herd Mentality?
Who am I when surrounded by others: am I defined as an Individual or in terms of The Group? Am I independent or controlled; alone or in-relation?

Reflecting: Who am I... among so many?

A few days later I was on a tour of Claude Monet's home in Giverny, France. The gardens were the site of many of his water lily paintings so I was interested in seeing what inspired him. It happened that the gardens were overflowing with Locals who availed themselves of this last beautifully sunny and warm Fall day. An anticipated individual reflective moment had suddenly been transformed by hordes of people vying for "The Best" Selfie and Group photo: click click... then rushing to the next section of the gardens.

I was overwhelmed by the jostling crowds! But, eventually, when I slowed down and focused on how the gardeners were keeping Monet's vision alive, I noticed a flickering of tranquility from within.

It is possible to be present, to focus on the task at hand (e.g., taking a photo), and still be aware of something greater: I can experience both Individual and Other!

Reflecting: Where are you in my life - close or at a distance?
(For more info: click on: Claude Monet, Gardens, Giverny, France)

As I continued to wander slowly along the garden paths, the frenzied horde of tourists moved ahead and beyond where I was. I no longer needed to Keep Up, Be First, or Have the Same Photo as the others. I was free and able to soak in Moments of Beauty and Inspiration.

There is a time and a place where we can walk together, share the experience, and still move apart. There can be a balance of Community and Self.

Reflecting: Who am I in... in relation to the world?
(Claude Monet, Gardens, Giverny, France)

How do these experiences fit in with dialogue? Consider the following questions:

When do I expect others to see, hear, and do things my way?
How might I become more curious -- and inquire -- about what inspires others?
Am I willing to let others know when I need to be around them... or when I need time alone?

As we move further into this holiday season, may the ebb and flow of group activities provide moments where you can be reflective and inspire your Individuality!