Cohousing-L Mailing List: Re: Diversity and conflict

[Michael D (ohanamd]

The Cambridge Dictionary Online gives the following as the first definition
of conflict:

"an active disagreement between people with opposing opinions or principles"

That's the meaning I use when I talk about conflict.  The second definition
is:

"fighting between two or more groups of people or countries"

I think that's the definition that people who are trying to avoid conflict
must be using.  I hope they aren't using the first definition.

The only way to avoid conflict (1st meaning) is to either give in all the
time, intimidate people into submission, or stay away from them.

The best way to avoid conflict (2nd meaning) is to learn a respectful,
cooperative conflict management process to use when there is conflict (1st
meaning).  Part of my work is to teach people such a process.

Conflict, from the point of view I'm using it, is something valuable to be
welcomed and embraced.

> It is very broadening to work with people who see the world a different
way
> and fascinating to try to understand why.
>
> Diversity also leads to better solutions because they are _bigger_
> solutions. The solution has as many dimensions as the people who develop
it.

Yes!

Namaste,
Michael
Heart Song Community
Santa Fe, NM


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