Our World: Piecing Together Peace

Each year at the end of April we are reminded of the impact we have on our planet... and our responsibility for its care and stewardship.  (For information on Earth Day 2018, click here.). 

For me, this celebration goes beyond this one day.  What seems to be called into question -- or a broader focus of Earth Day -- is the measure by which we are: 

• Aware of other people and our planet;
• Sensitive to our interconnectedness.

What do you notice happening in our world today?  Are we coming together and developing solutions to the issues confronting us?

Our World:  Coming Together or Unraveling?
(Photo Credit:  The Ivancic Superheroes)

It seems that many of our current issues are complex and polarized.  Rather than look for simple Yes-No, Right-Wrong, Majority-Minority solutions, maybe it is time to realize that each person, town, city, state, and country has a piece of the overall puzzle.  And, rather than work towards a stalemate where no solution is achieved, maybe it is time to seek out a a different strategy.

By inviting more people to the table and through listening and dialogue, we can unlock our containment and escape this dualistic approach toward problem solving.

Acknowledging that each person has a role and a responsibility in the solution is one step forward.  Listening to and respecting another opinion opens possibilities not previously considered.  Puzzling together smaller pieces will build towards a more complete Truth not envisioned or understood previously.

Our World:  Together We Have an Answer
(Photo Credit:  Getty Images)

Earth Day opens us to the possibility of seeing and experiencing a brighter future.  Solutions no longer rely on one person or country.  Resources jointly shared allow everyone to succeed.

The cycles of every day -- night and day, life and death, oneness and togetherness -- remind us of our ability to Hope:  we can overcome division and the unraveling created by humanity when we experience all of the cycles... together.

Our World: Light Overcomes Darkness
(Photo Credit:  Evening Standard, NASA image)

Questions to consider:

• How do I protect and sustain life in my home, neighborhood, and city?
• What answers am I seeking in relation to family, friends, and colleagues?
• How can I listen more openly to another person's experiences and opinions?

May this week provide moments where the pieces of Peace begin to come together in your life!

Larry Gardepie

Dialogue San Diego Consulting

(click on link for website)