One beautiful aspect of being human is our diversity: we have a variety of likes and dislikes; we approach problems in different ways; and we have the ability to observe and learn. I think that is why I have enjoyed watching NBC's medical drama series, New Amsterdam. Each week for five years we were drawn into stories that addressed current issues of bias, misunderstandings, and relationships gone awry. The writers and actors walked us through ways to talk, listen, and adjust our mental models.
The series finale ended as it began years before: the hospital director asking, "How can I help?"
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| How can I help? (Photo credit: Cast of New Amsterdam, Showbiz Junkies) |
Hearing these four words throughout the series reminded me that we are partners on this Journey Called Life. By asking the question -- and allowing the other person to answer -- we come to a shared understanding:
- This is what is needed;
- My answer may not be yours; and,
- I don't have to make a decision that disrespects you.
This TV show also modeled various ways to listen and let go: our primary goal is to create safe environments that respect our diversity and differences.
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| How can I help? (Photo credit: Cat helps lost baby duck, Ava Hamric) |
In the final season, Max Goodwin, the hospital director, learned sign language because one of his doctors was deaf. Dr. Iggy Frome, the head of Psychiatry, came to terms with his own insecurities to help those in his care. Dr. Lauren Bloom, head of the Emergency Department, let go of wanting to take away her sister's addictions. Dr. Floyd Reynolds, head of General Surgery, found the father that abandoned his family to understand what it meant to be family.
Each person and role struggled to be human, and learned to intentionally help one another: "How can I help?"
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| How can I help? (Photo credit: A Piece of Peace, L. R. Knost) |
Five years later I am beginning to understand: it is okay to be... broken... to not know the answers... to need help... to be human!
If you are looking for a show to binge on a weekend when it is raining or snowing, I would offer New Amsterdam.
May we be willing to ask others: "How can I help?" And, may we be willing to listen to and accept the answers.
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| Larry Gardepie (click on link for website) |
Sometimes listening to someone is the best/only way to help. Being a good listener is a learned and honed skill for some. For others it is a natural ability. Thanks Larry for highlighting is gift.
ReplyDeleteThanks Larry for your weekly help to accept and share love in so many ways!
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