I Want to Believe...

What do you believe in?  This question has resonated for me these past several weeks.  With political posturing consuming our nation, the ideological divisions in society, the recent natural disasters of hurricanes, wildfires and mudslides, there is a lot to consider when reviewing the belief systems and meanings we attach to events in our daily lives.

As I reflected on what I believed in, a companion question surfaced:  What do I want to believe? 

In fact, this latter question provided insights about filters or SCRs (socially constructed realities) which were formed by family, culture, religion, and the worldview I have accepted.

What do you believe in?  What do you want to believe?

I want to believe... in people's goodness
(Hurricane Harvey:  image from World Vision)

Even with the conflicts I experience or the views filtered through the media, I want to believe in people's goodness.  We have witnessed extraordinary feats of bravery and valor through each of the natural disasters.  People helping one another to survive.

I want to believe that people are good -- that I will be there for others in need; that someone will be there for me.  I wonder:  if I truly believed this, wouldn't I see it every day in the interactions that I have with the people around me?  Am I expecting someone to fail or disappoint me -- or -- am I willing to see goodness in each smile, handshake, and interaction?

I want to believe... leaders are serving their constituents
(U. S. House of Representatives)

Throughout this past year respect for the American flag has been highlighted.  Yet, I wonder: how often have I respected the diverse peoples the flag represents?  Our belief systems seem to have divided us into Red States and Blue States, but do we remember what the colors of the flag symbolize:

• White:  purity and innocence
• Red:  hardiness and valour
• Blue:  vigilance, perseverance and justice

I want to believe that our elected officials will transcend party lines and serve all constituents, struggling to honor all belief systems that are interwoven in the distinct flags of all states, cities, and towns.  Can I transcend these differences and respect the people in my life?

I want to believe... in a life without barriers
(El Malecon, Ensenada, Mexico)

Reflecting on the various stages of my life, I realize that I have changed.  My beliefs have changed as I have encountered peoples and cultures from around the world.  My perspective has expanded as I meet others who think and live differently.

I want to believe in a world without human-constructed limitations and barriers.

I want to believe... in progress that includes all peoples
(Diamond Head State Monument)

Hiking to the top of Diamond Head, I watched hundreds of people walking toward the summit or coming back down the trail:  young and old; physically fit and out-of-shape; family groups or individuals; people from many cultures and speaking languages I cannot.  All were focused on a goal:  to reach the summit... or go as far as individually possible.

I want to believe in progress that includes all people, moving ahead toward common and individual goals.  I want to believe in beginnings.  I want to believe in dialogue and understanding.  I want to believe in a world improved when we care and assist one another to attain those goals we individually and collectively aspire.

Are you willing to share...   What do you believe in?  What do you want to believe?  

May this week inspire us to reflect on the beliefs that sustain us... and possibly separate us.  May we seek to understand ways to support beliefs different than our own.
May we want to believe in the goodness of each other!



 

Larry Gardepie

Dialogue San Diego Consulting
(Click on link for website)