There is a wave of euphoric optimism in several political circles. The world is crying for solutions to the economic crisis that we face. The mandate for the party is power to solve the problem is consistently strong in the major countries. An assumption is building that whatever is proposed must be the answer we should adopt. Any disagreement must be resisted. Harmony is vitally important. Implementation is critical.
I would like to challenge these assumptions. A difference in opinion, between lovers, family members, or those in a community is not necessarily bad. Individuals often see life quite differently. It is in our diversity that we have an opportunity to reach great heights and solve impossible problems.
Strong disagreements, serious conflicts even, if handled properly can be helpful if we are serious about finding great solutions. The fact that people are struggling to deal with conflict is not a leading indicator of an underlying problem. Strong opinions will often give birth to conflict. Problems begin with the sides stop listening to each other or try to prevent alternatives views from being heard.
History shows that seekers of truth often had to deal with conflict along the way. “The governor invited Barnabas and Saul in, wanting to hear God's Word firsthand from them. But Dr. Know-It-All (that's the wizard's name in plain English) stirred up a ruckus, trying to divert the governor from becoming a believer.” (Acts 13.7, 8) In this case, the attempt to deny true dialogue was the warning, not the conflict.
Your day and mine will be filled with conflict. There will be times when it will be significant. These conflicts can tear one’s heart. We can let the conflict overwhelm us or work through it to keep the dialogue open. The latter is an invitation to finding a solution for all. It is a challenge, one that is worthy of our time and patience. We can forgive a slight to keep conversations alive. We can work through words, responding with compassion and mercy. We can reach for greatness while bringing others with us.
