This week I undertook some conflict coaching and mediation training as part of my professional development as a teacher. The Peacewise training I participated in offers Christian solutions to conflict, focusing on developing skills in the ministry of reconciliation. It was an eye opening experience.
Perhaps the most profound (aha!) statement I was impacted by was this one .... ' All conflict originates in and is empowered by the elevation of SELF above others' - placing more importance on 'What I want!' .... how true is this? Conflict arises when our good desires over step the boundary and become demands to bend to our way, our wants and our will. What is in our heart influences how we act, what we say and how we behave.
A few pearls of wisdom
(and some favourite aha moments)
- Conflict offers opportunity to reconcile ourselves to the heart of others.
- Conflict reveals what is in our heart - pride, selfishness, SELF (wanting our way!)
- A problem gets bigger when we focus on it.
- Our soul must be nourished by repentance and forgiveness.
- Our soul must be nourished by repentance and forgiveness.
- Reconciliation brings hope and freedom.
- Peacemakers are people who breathe grace.
- Peacemakers are people who breathe grace.
Blessed are the peace makers
