Falling and Returning seem to be recurring themes in our physical world: leaves dying and falling from the trees; gravity pulling objects back to solid ground; glacier calving and ice shelves splintering as water returns to the ocean.
These thoughts came to mind as our ship cautiously moved among the icebergs and ice flows of the Antarctic Peninsula. Magnificent... Inspiring... Awesome... these words didn't quite capture the Beauty Surrounding us as we were invited into Nature's Cycle of Life.
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| What words would describe the Beauty Surrounding you? (Photo: Antarctic Icebergs and Ice Flows - Larry Gardepie, 2023) |
The biting winds and chilly waters could not dissuade us from the open decks as we took in the majestic wind-swept vistas. Our ship's ice pilot and the research scientists shared with us what might be seen, and encouraged us to be observant, to wait, and to be patient. Also, they impressed on us the importance of Respect (of the environment; of what we don't know; of icebergs that could damage our vessel).
For many of us, this was our first time in this part of the world. Everything was new and exciting! Their guidance added to our sense of Anticipation.
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| Are you a distant spectator in your relationships? (Photo: Antarctic Iceberg - Larry Gardepie, 2023) |
I have always been introverted. This aspect of my personality allows me to sit back and observe others and what is happening around me. What I have discovered as I have practiced dialogue -- and sometimes, failed! -- is that Dialogue has its own life cycle. It is not a spectator sport.
Yes, it is sometimes important to fall back, listen, and question my way of thinking... but it is equally important to return to the relationship and actively develop curiosity about what I do not know. I must be willing to learn from others.
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| Do we respect what could hurt us? (Photo: Passing alongside an Antarctic Iceberg - Larry Gardepie, 2023) |
Falling and Returning are aspects of Breaking Away from behaviors that separate us and respecting patterns that melt away our resistance. Whether we are ready to admit it or not, we need one another... especially when we encounter complex problems. Each of us has information to share: without me or my information you may not succeed!
Questions to ask ourselves:
- Do we want to see the Beauty Surrounding us... in the people we meet?
- Are we willing to engage... by seeking out information that challenges us?
- What are we able to contribute... that respects all perspectives?
Let us approach each situation this next week with a new mindset that excites us and helps us to anticipate falling, returning, and breaking away.
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| Larry Gardepie (click on link for website) |
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