Virtual Love and Thorns: Do I .... Everyone?

Creativity comes in many forms!  I've always believed that, but even more so in this "COVID era."  Many friends and coworkers have said they are zoomed out -- spending hour after hour in virtual meetings, trying to stay in touch and keep work teams connected while physically apart.  But, an element of creativity still lingers as people find different ways to live Separate-but-Connected.

Recently, a friend shared an updated version of Leonardo DaVinci's iconic The Last Supper painting:  a meal "zoomed" between Jesus and the apostles!

As I viewed this modern portrayal of an historic event, I wondered:

• How would I imagine the Last Supper without DaVinci's 15th century mural?
• In what ways do I communicate what I understand?
• Would my beliefs change if infused with new insights?

How has Social Distancing changed your outlook?
(Photo credit:  7 Tips for Videoconferencing Like a Pro, MeetingsNet)

 
Whether we Zoom, FaceTime, Facebook, WhatsApp, Twitter, call, email, or write cards and letters, what seems constant is our desire (or need) to stay connected.  In the best of times, we remain individuals (separate) seeking common unity (community), connections that strengthen our individuality.

This Individual-Connection was evident this past weekend as I walked through newly-reopened Old Town.  Face masks on and socially-distanced, people were individually enjoying time outside together.  Familiar sites seemed new, almost like seeing for the first time!

Can you see beauty among the thorns?

An old cactus caught my attention along the walk: in the midst of all of the thorns, blossoms were ready to open -- bringing a stark contrast to this arid desert plant.  Interesting how nature uses flowers to attract and thorns to protect.

Isn't this the same with us:  we seek connectivity and love, yet our beliefs and conclusions separate us?

Do you love everybody?  Why or Why not?

Children in our neighborhood have been chalking up the sidewalks with games, puzzles, and words.  One message stood out last week: "Love Everybody."  A simple message that calls for transformation.

Maybe this COVID era isn't about the thorns of separation and boredom but about a new normal that we seek:  how we plan to treat one another when re-engaging... virtually or in person.

Love Everybody in child-like script on the sidewalk is challenging me to question the ways I remain separate from you.  Through dialogue, maybe we can explore our beliefs and understandings... finding creative ways to come together.

If you had a choice, what would your New Normal be?  How would you respect both your individuality and our common unity?

Larry Gardepie

Dialogue San Diego Consulting

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