Conflict is Natural
The potential for conflict is always present. In all our relationships there are differing needs, opinions, values, interests and desires, therefore, there must be conflict. If each person is unique, then each shall see the world differently. As much as we may think we need to avoid conflict it is impossible. We should not think of conflict as being wrong or shameful, when it is natural and normal in all our relationships.
Destructive or Constructive view of conflict?
Often we think of conflict as a problem. It is the great disrupter of our lives. On a personal level it leads to arguments within our families. It leaves us with broken relationships and hurt feelings amongst our friends. Conflict causes divisions in our work and in our churches. At its worst, conflict results in violence and destruction caused by wars between tribes and nations.
What if we take a different view? What if we envision conflict not as destructive, but as a gift to transform us? Can conflict be an opportunity to build something constructive that results in more intimate relationships and ultimately a more peaceful world? When handled appropriately conflict can be a life-giving experience, though it often is messy.
We Only Know Part of the Truth
In all conflicts, whether we are active paricipants or outside observers, we only understand part of the truth. We bring our own life experiences and baggage that have shaped our perspective of how we view a conflict. When engaging in conflict, we must be open to hearing a new 'truth' or new story. We must learn to hold in tension our own truth along with the humanness of the other in the conflict.
Source: Schrock-Shenk, Carolyn (1999). Introducing Conflict and Conflict Transformation. In C. Schrock-Shenk and L. Ressler (Eds), Making Peace with Conflict: Practical Skills for Conflict Transformation (pp. 25-37). Scottsdale, PA: Herald Press.
Destructive or Constructive view of conflict?
Often we think of conflict as a problem. It is the great disrupter of our lives. On a personal level it leads to arguments within our families. It leaves us with broken relationships and hurt feelings amongst our friends. Conflict causes divisions in our work and in our churches. At its worst, conflict results in violence and destruction caused by wars between tribes and nations.
What if we take a different view? What if we envision conflict not as destructive, but as a gift to transform us? Can conflict be an opportunity to build something constructive that results in more intimate relationships and ultimately a more peaceful world? When handled appropriately conflict can be a life-giving experience, though it often is messy.
We Only Know Part of the Truth
In all conflicts, whether we are active paricipants or outside observers, we only understand part of the truth. We bring our own life experiences and baggage that have shaped our perspective of how we view a conflict. When engaging in conflict, we must be open to hearing a new 'truth' or new story. We must learn to hold in tension our own truth along with the humanness of the other in the conflict.
Source: Schrock-Shenk, Carolyn (1999). Introducing Conflict and Conflict Transformation. In C. Schrock-Shenk and L. Ressler (Eds), Making Peace with Conflict: Practical Skills for Conflict Transformation (pp. 25-37). Scottsdale, PA: Herald Press.
