I have been pondering the philosophies and “fad” wisdoms surrounding struggle and heart ache.
I have and support such books as The Secret and The Shack, I have also taken another step and just read an awesome book: Solving Tough Problems written by Adam Kahane. What an extraordinary man! What got me hooked was a lecture I attended (in my attempt to gain wisdom and knowledge = continuous professional development) presented by Len Turner. He mentioned the Flight of the Flamingos – one of four scenarios – a method of problem solving used by our SA leaders in the turn to democracy. I had heard “the flight of the flamingoes” being spoken of but had very little knowledge or true understanding of it. Len Turner’s lecture was so inspiring I bought the book and read it.
I have so many business and spiritual books to read, I thought I would first read the online book summary and foreword by Peter Senge – an author I follow in my line of business. But the introductory paragraph grabbed me instantly:
“Tough problems usually don’t get solved peacefully. They either don’t get solved at all – they get stuck – or they get solved by force. These frustrating and frightening outcomes occur all the time. Families replay the same argument over and over, or a parent lays down the law.”
The appeal of these words was due in part, probably because the family was preparing for the coming together of generations in celebration of my Grandmother’s 90th birthday. This brought with it preemptive anxiety as we feared the worst in facing unresolved family issues. For me personally, I feel stuck between two awesome families whom I love dearly, but who don’t see eye to eye on many things. Tough Problems.
Then there is the fact that things seem to be getting tougher and tougher financially!!!
I then put aside Adam’s book in search of more peaceful and calmer solice…The Secret, which I read and re-read, and even listen to on audio. How do I move from this place of toughness?
Life goes on, and work carries on. The birthday party went very well – from my perspective. Most importantly Granny had a wonderful time, surrounded by family and dear friends. Dad’s speech was very profound…and stirred within me…but the toughness continues unabated.
I went into a meeting and the four people in attendance began sharing their “tough” times. Tough problems abound….I thought: “at least I am not alone”
Then a colleague said something truly wonderful in response to all our troubles and woes: “These may be a blessing in disguise, you know, in de skies…” as he point upwards. He also said, “when things get scary don’t look down, look up in de skies….”
I have and support such books as The Secret and The Shack, I have also taken another step and just read an awesome book: Solving Tough Problems written by Adam Kahane. What an extraordinary man! What got me hooked was a lecture I attended (in my attempt to gain wisdom and knowledge = continuous professional development) presented by Len Turner. He mentioned the Flight of the Flamingos – one of four scenarios – a method of problem solving used by our SA leaders in the turn to democracy. I had heard “the flight of the flamingoes” being spoken of but had very little knowledge or true understanding of it. Len Turner’s lecture was so inspiring I bought the book and read it.
I have so many business and spiritual books to read, I thought I would first read the online book summary and foreword by Peter Senge – an author I follow in my line of business. But the introductory paragraph grabbed me instantly:
“Tough problems usually don’t get solved peacefully. They either don’t get solved at all – they get stuck – or they get solved by force. These frustrating and frightening outcomes occur all the time. Families replay the same argument over and over, or a parent lays down the law.”
The appeal of these words was due in part, probably because the family was preparing for the coming together of generations in celebration of my Grandmother’s 90th birthday. This brought with it preemptive anxiety as we feared the worst in facing unresolved family issues. For me personally, I feel stuck between two awesome families whom I love dearly, but who don’t see eye to eye on many things. Tough Problems.
Then there is the fact that things seem to be getting tougher and tougher financially!!!
I then put aside Adam’s book in search of more peaceful and calmer solice…The Secret, which I read and re-read, and even listen to on audio. How do I move from this place of toughness?
Life goes on, and work carries on. The birthday party went very well – from my perspective. Most importantly Granny had a wonderful time, surrounded by family and dear friends. Dad’s speech was very profound…and stirred within me…but the toughness continues unabated.
I went into a meeting and the four people in attendance began sharing their “tough” times. Tough problems abound….I thought: “at least I am not alone”
Then a colleague said something truly wonderful in response to all our troubles and woes: “These may be a blessing in disguise, you know, in de skies…” as he point upwards. He also said, “when things get scary don’t look down, look up in de skies….”
