QUOTATION OF THE WEEK
If everyone is thinking alike then somebody isn't thinking.
--George S. Patton (1885-1945) U.S. general
PERSONAL REFLECTIONS
Let us say you are meeting with a group of people and everybody is agreeing. This is a perfect situation, right? Well, maybe yes, but more likely no. Agreeing comes from many reasons and motives. Some people are just silent and we perceive it as agreeing. Others nod their heads without any words. Still others utter a "mmm" or a quiet "yes." This is done and off you go down some road, but is it the right road and did everyone really agree or just "go with the flow?" Was there another idea left unspoken? Perhaps and idea that was daring, unheard of, revolutionary! An idea that would have taken flight and soared. Was the idea smothered in the sea of intimidation, or perhaps out of embarrassment at offering something so revolutionary? Did someone, perhaps you, cut off an idea before it had a chance to be explored?
The most creative advances and resolution of problems do not initially come from everyone agreeing. They come from an exchange of ideas. They come from people gathering to find answers and doing so in an atmosphere of respect, inquiry, investigation and the fabulous exchange of information, ideas and knowledge. They come by listening, not idly but actively. Eventually a consensus may be reached but not before an open exchange of information is allowed.
So the next time you are involved in a group discussion about resolving a problem or creating something, make certain you are not the one who keeps people on the narrow road. Instead be the one who opens the door to exploration. Risk it! It is worth it. You will not lose and can gain so much as ideas are expressed, discussed, intertwined and ultimately formulated into magical solutions and events.
Blessings and Love,
Allen Schmeltz
Copyright © 2000 Allen F. Schmeltz. All rights reserved.
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