Refuse Apathy. Embrace Curiosity.
Statements are a start…but they are definitely not the finish
A more cynical person would probably respond by saying that talk is cheap. But a relentless optimist (like yours truly) would say it's a start. It isn't enough but if talking moves the conversation forward, if it shines the light of accountability, and if it helps change the culture, then it is often a good start. Even if some of the statements are clumsy or late - as people, this only seems natural - if they reflect core values or some inner intention, we can work with that.
Dismissing the Messenger
This idea of completely dismissing ideas because of who is saying something or how they are saying it is rooted in ignorance and insecurity. These days, people aren’t shooting the messenger – they don’t want to hear any views that don’t align with their own perspective so it is easier to simply dismiss the messenger altogether.
Rushing and Navigating
When is rushing a good idea? When we think about both our professional and personal lives, there’s a general consensus that rushing is a bad idea because it can often lead to mistakes. Like interest, those errors can compound if let unchecked and uncorrected.
Conflict and Resolution
The standard for progress shouldn’t be if you win a debate or argument, but rather, if you find new ways of developing compassion in the face of opposition.
Why Isn't the Media Talking About This?
When someone asks, why isn't the media talking about this? They usually aren't doing the work first.When we pose this question, we aren't being literal with it. What we're really saying is, "Why aren't they reporting on the matter as much as I would like or presenting the story in a way that I approve of?"
Unexpected Nuance
About this time last year, I had an impactful (and surprising) discussion around race. Here's how it went...
The Tic Tac Toe Hustle
There are specific tactics for winning Tic Tac Toe, or at the very least, to never lose. I took this knowledge by challenging restaurant regulars who were friends with our family to a friendly wager of fifty cents per game.
