May 2008

Giving Differences Room

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ecently, I’ve been struggling with prejudging news reports, current events, and those covering the stories; such as reporters, newscaster, and commentators. I now realize that of most --- of my assumptions, and opinions are based on my own personal context, social mores, and upbringing, education, and life experiences. This constitutes the underpinning framework for my prejudging.

In the book, “Blink” Malcolm Gladwell quotes a salesman named Golomb, “Prejudging is the kiss of death. You have to give everyone your best shot. (p. 91).” I struggle with prejudging. My major drawbacks are a lack of understanding, not seeking adequate information, stereotyping and lumping alike circumstances under the same umbrella. I have learned several valuable lessons that have led to my growth in this area. I am immediately reminded of the biblical admonition in Matthew 7:1-5:

"Don't pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults— unless, of course, you want the same treatment. That critical spirit has a way of boomeranging. It's easy to see a smudge on your neighbor's face and be oblivious to the ugly sneer on your own. Do you have the nerve to say, 'Let me wash your face for you,' when your own face is distorted by contempt? It's this whole traveling road-show mentality all over again, playing a holier-than-thou part instead of just living your part. Wipe that ugly sneer off your own face, and you might be fit to offer a washcloth to your neighbor.” (Source: The Message Bible) This text reminds me that I should always be merciful, compassionate, and careful not judging or condemning another. Judgment does not preclude the discernment of appropriate and inappropriate practices but leads to self-examination and correction.

When my context gets in the way, I refocus by asking these few questions: What is the communicator’s perspective? How deeply rooted are they in their perspective? What experiences are they drawing from? These questions give room for understanding and learning the other’s perspective; reducing the possibilities for false reads. It takes the focus away from our assumptions and plants room for examining values and assumptions that arise; not from our context but the one who is reporting. This method explores the unknown and provides a means for remembering the possibility that our assumptions can be misinterpreting the intent. My prayer is that you, too, will give room for the world’s differences!

Blessings and Happy Mother’s Day
Chap