amazing what dialogue can do.

Today I had lunch with a new colleague. We were brainstorming about the project on which we are working. As we waited for our food to come, we got to know one another alittle bit. Prior to this, we had only been in group meetings before, and hadn't gotten to a chance to know each other. As we chatted, we slowly moved into our brainstorming session. We noticed we were able to use the things we talked about early on in the conversation. as segways into our brainstorming. We also found that we were more at ease and more creative in our brainstorming because we had gotten to know each other in a small way.

I have been studying in the area of brain function and relationships. The technical term is "interpersonal neurobiology." It is amazing how our brain functions as we are in healthy relationships. In fact, researchers say that it is IN our relationships, that we have become who we are. We are impacted by the experiences of relationships in which we participate. According to research, it could be that my colleague and I were more at ease, and creative because we are learning to be in meaningful relationships with each other.

Here is my question for the day - imagine the relationships in which you participate. Which relationships have left on you positive, amazing qualities? Are there experiences in relationships that have left you with challenges? What might you find in meaningful relationship with others, than could assist you in the challenges you have encountered in past experiences? Please post your thoughts!

the influence of an icon...

A few days ago an icon passed away, Walter Cronkite. I heard Brian Williams, of NBC make a comment about the impact of Cronkite. He talked about life during the time of Cronkite's reign. He spoke of a special time of "community," saying that it was comforting to know that everyone was listening to the same voice, rather than all of the voices we hear today. This is not a direct quote, it is mainly what I remember him saying. I was taken back by this comment. Really? Hearing one voice is better than hearing many? I found this comment bothersome on a couple of levels.

First of all, the first amendment of the U.S. Constitution states, "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." As a news reporter one would think that Williams would understand the necessity of the "many voices."

Secondly, according to the comment, "community" apparently is when we all agree and are listening to the same voice vs the many? Really. If this is true, and we ought to be all listening to the same voice, then which one do we listen to? The easy answer is "God." However looking at the number of denominations and groups who all believe they are hearing "God," and looking at the number of differences that exist, all with people who are "listening to God," one can see that perhaps that answer isn't as easy as we think.

I find that many people believe that community is found when we hang out with people who are like us, people who "agree" with us. However, if those with whom we are in relationship are the ones who help us grow, and we all agree on "everything" where exactly is the growth? How does a community ever exist if all must agree? I believe that community is truly found in our differences. How about you? Do you believe that community (meaningful relationships) occur in our sameness or in our differences?

"Come and play"

This morning I was going through a pile of things that had gathered on the table. I was looking for a bill that was coming due, so decided that while I was looking for it, I might as well toss most of what had gathered in the pile. I found a couple of brochures of a particular mountain resort area we plan to visit. This is what the brochure said:

"With the day's first steaming mug of fresh coffee in hand, you step out onto your deck and survey the endless ridges of mountain peaks rising over mist-filled valleys. The morning breeze dances through the pines and whispers, "Come and Play."

Now the irony of this was that I was sitting on my deck, with a steaming mug of coffee, staring up our of our valley, watching the sunrise. If I am fortunate enough to be home in the morning, this is where I spend my first hours. So, why was I going away to another state to do what I can do here at home? We are getting together with family from another state, so this is the main reason for the trip. However what got me thinking was this: while I do spend my mornings on the deck whenever possible, I rarely accept the invitation to "come and play" unless I leave town to do so. There is work calling around every corner of the property. I promised myself I would play this summer. I have done a little play, but I think I need to intentionally schedule in more - on a regular basis - not just during trips.

Play is good for the soul.

While the cabin brochure seemed to offer many things that we enjoy here (lucky us), there was one thing that the resort offered that I do need to look into...a "courteous and friendly staff." Just how DOES that work?