Different ways

We are all different with different habits, qualities, traits, strengths and weakness, in fact, each one of us is unique. This uniqueness means that we may not always agree about everything. There will be differences of opinion. These differences can best be settled by allowing people to voice their opinions and enable ideas to mingle freely. The basic requirement is an open mind. We must `listen’ to other people’s viewpoints.

At the same time we must have the ability to voice our own opinions without hesitation. Disagreements should be settled peacefully. We should all try to play the role of peacemakers. This is particularly important today, as interdependence between the nations of the world and between people has increased manifold. We, therefore, need to understand the value of peaceful coexistence.

Two people or two groups may have completely different views on an issue. They have two options. They can either fight or have one of them win the argument. Or they can discuss the matter come to a better understanding. The person who comes up with a peaceful solution is wiser and stronger. In relationships there must be room to differ and disagree. We should not let disagreements ruin them. People are more important than personal opinions, likes and dislikes.

Conflicts arise out two things. First, we believe that we know the whole truth. Second, we believe that the other person is totally wrong. Both these beliefs are often incorrect. Both sides are usually partly right and partly wrong. They need to come together to reveal the whole truth, like a jigsaw puzzle does. No piece of a puzzle is wrong or irrelevant. But no piece gives us the whole picture either. We have to put the pieces together to see the whole picture. Life is also like that. Rather than insisting that a single piece is the whole picture, we must try to bring together the various pieces and enjoy the full picture.

It is everybody’s responsibility to avoid and settle conflicts and promote goodwill. You must take the first step. Do you know why? Because you are the only person you have control over.