It is easy to cut people off and out of our lives. Many people are doing that today, but it means we no longer communicate and get to understand each other and where we are all coming from.
Generally, we all have more in common than differences. Yes, our color, religion, nationality even language may all be different. But, if we take time to work through and communicate we will find that most of us want the same thing.
We can choose to be the blockage, the closed door not allowing pent up energies a way to dissipate or we can build bridges allowing energy to flow between us, learning about each other.
Just as when we meet a new client we have to take time to listen, explore their lives, how they live and how they want to live so we can find them the house that will allow them to achieve their plans.
Likewise with life, we need to listen, explore, ask follow up questions and really seek to understand where people are coming from so we can help each other.
We need to allow the energies flowing inside us a way out that is healthy. Getting out in nature, stretching ourselves physically, feeling the muscles tire and breathing deep of the air around us can help. This is much better than exploding in a tantrum or posting on social media such that we drive others away.
So what is your choice, to close the door, to retreat or to open the door, build longer bridges and get to know someone you may not agree with necessarily unless you get to know them a little better and where they come from.
I remember a story told by Stephen Covey in the 7 Habits book about a young father on a train with his two very young children who were running around annoying other passengers, he seemed not to be taking any notice of them. At last one passenger says something to him. He comes back to the situation from a place far away and apologizes for their behavior, he explains their mother just passed away, they are on their way home from the hospital and he is not sure how he is going to manage to bring them up on his own. Suddenly, the situation changes, people understand him, and they reach out to help with the children, no longer annoyed, but willing to empathize and lift the pressure upon him. Opening the door, rather than closing it, offering a bridge rather than a raised drawbridge.
Sometimes, it is just a simple question, "Is everything all right, can I help you?" What will you choose today and tomorrow....
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