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First Comes Justice, A call to action!

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First Comes Justice: A Call to Action

 

I heard this call last week and it has been haunting me. Do you know what the definition of Justice is? In today’s world Justice embodies fairness, equality, and accountability, ensuring that every individual is treated with dignity, regardless of their background. It goes beyond law enforcement to actively pursue social equity, addressing systemic targeting that marginalize certain people groups. In our rapidly changing global landscape, justice demands a commitment to human rights and the protection of the vulnerable. It calls for us as a collective society to challenge injustices that we see and create systems that empower all members of society. Ultimately, for all of us, justice fosters a world where everyone has the opportunity to live freely and access the resources they need to succeed.

To continue this thread, thinking about a world teetering on the edge of chaos and dis-order, the concept of justice stands as a beacon of hope and a call to action. Justice is not merely a legal term or a distant ideal; it is the very foundation upon which a compassionate society is built. It is the force that holds back the darkness, offering light to those who have been cast into the shadows. But who offers this justice? Who visits the poor and the sick? And more importantly, who are we as a society—those who love and act, or those who turn away, saying, “Not my problem”?

Justice is often personified by those who dedicate their lives to serving others. These are the individuals and organizations that step into the breach, filling the gaps left by systemic failures. They are the social workers, the healthcare providers, the educators, and the countless volunteers who work tirelessly to uplift the marginalized and the oppressed. They are the ones who visit the poor, offering not just material aid but also dignity and respect. They are the ones who visit the sick, providing care and comfort in times of need. And for me and a few others that I know, visiting the incarcerated in prisons across the country with a program called “Kairos“. Can I tell you a secret? There were times that I did not want to go through that gate, I was tired, I was sure that I was not making a difference, I knew there so many more people then me that could do it better. But, if not me, who?

These guardians of justice do not act out of obligation but out of a deep-seated belief in the inherent worth of every individual. They understand that justice is not a zero-sum game but a collective endeavor that benefits all. By lifting others, they lift society as a whole.

Injustice thrives in the shadows, feeding on ignorance and apathy. It is the darkness that creeps into the corners of our communities, whispering that some lives are worth less than others. But justice, when wielded with compassion and courage, holds back this darkness. It shines a light on inequality and demands accountability. It challenges the status quo and insists on change. I like to tell people when doing spiritual direction that those of us that are called to work with the least, the last and the lost are linking arms and holding back darkness while shining light in the darkest of dark corners of our society.

Justice is not passive; it is active and dynamic. It requires us to confront our uncomfortable truths and to take action, even when it is inconvenient or difficult. It calls us to be allies and advocates, to use our voices and our resources to support those who have been silenced and marginalized.

The measure of a society is how it treats its most vulnerable members. The poor and the sick are often the first to be forgotten, left to fend for themselves in a world that values wealth and health above all else. But justice demands that we do better. It calls us to visit the poor, to understand their struggles and to work towards solutions that address the root causes of poverty. And yes, the poor will always be with us. It calls us to visit the sick, to provide care and compassion, and to advocate for a healthcare system that is accessible and equitable for all.

Visiting the poor and the sick is not just an act of charity; it is an act of justice. It is a recognition of our shared humanity and a commitment to building a society that values every life.

In a world where the gaps in our social fabric are widening, we are called to be fillers of the breach. This is not a task for the faint of heart, and you may not be a person called to do this, but it is a task that is essential for the survival of our communities and frankly our world. Like some of you, Lynette and I have been honored to travel around the world, and guess what folks, other places has these problems as well. Because it requires us to step into the spaces where others have fallen short, to offer support and solutions where there are none.

Filling the breach means being proactive rather than reactive. It means anticipating the needs of our communities and working collaboratively to address them. It means being innovative and resourceful, finding new ways to support those who are struggling. Not by saying, Not my problem, but realizing that it is all of our problems.

Ultimately, the question of justice is a question of identity. Who are we as a society? Are we known by those who love, who act with compassion and courage? Or are we known by those who say, “Not my problem,” turning away from the suffering of others?

The answer lies in our actions. Justice is not a passive state; it is an active choice. It is a choice to stand up for what is right, to speak out against injustice, and to work towards a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

This is a call to action for all of us. It is a call to be the guardians of justice, to hold back the darkness, and to visit the poor and the sick. It is a call to fill the breach, to be known by our love and our compassion.

We cannot afford to be complacent. The challenges we face are so very great, but so too is our capacity for change. Together, yes together we can build a society that is just and equitable, a society that values every life and leaves no one behind.

Let us answer the call. Let us be the ones who offer justice, who hold back the darkness, and who visit the poor and the sick. Let us be the fillers of the breach, known by our love and our commitment to a better world.

 

Justice is not an abstract concept; it is a tangible reality that we create through our actions. It is the foundation of a compassionate society, and it is up to us to build it. Let us rise to the challenge and answer the call to action. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can bring justice to all.

Join us in our mission to create a more just and compassionate society. Volunteer with local organizations, advocate for policy changes, and support initiatives that uplift the marginalized. Together, we can make a difference!!!!!

First Comes Justice!

“Embracing Perspectives: Insights from Richard Rohr’s Conference”

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Lynette and I attended the Richard Rohr conference in NM and had some wonderful insights which I will be sharing over the next few weeks. Yes, Richard Rohr is deeply spiritual, presenting ideas in a way that resonates with many people. You don’t have to agree with someone to hear their wisdom.

Feeling like we live in a world that often feels divided, the ability to see things from another person’s perspective is a powerful tool. Some of the things I learned in the last week will follow in this post. It allows us to navigate our relationships with compassion and empathy, giving us understanding and connection rather than possible conflict. What would happen if we explored the importance of embracing different viewpoints, the benefits of not feeling the need to defend our own positions, and how this practice can lead to a more harmonious existence.

Understanding perspective at its core is seeing that perspective is the lens through which we view the world. Our world view, I learned about my world view from Cindy Wigglesworth, one of my greatest mentors, is shaped by our experiences, beliefs, and emotions. Each person’s perspective is unique, influenced by their upbringing, culture, and personal experiences.When we take the time to understand someone else’s viewpoint, we open ourselves up to a richer, more nuanced understanding of the world, which is often not threatening.

Imagine a conversation where two people hold opposing views on a contentious issue. Not that we have a lot of those going on in today’s world that we live in. Instead of immediately jumping to defend their own stance, these two people choose to listen actively to one another. This simple act of listening can transform the dialogue. It allows for a deeper exploration of the reasons behind each perspective, fostering an environment of respect and understanding. I will not kid you, it is very hard work to “listen” to another, and some of us give up trying before they get to understanding because it is just too hard.

The Importance of compassion is the ability to recognize the suffering of others and take action to help alleviate that suffering. When we approach conversations with compassion, we create a safe space for others to express their thoughts and feelings. This is particularly important in discussions that may be emotionally charged or sensitive.Did you know that humans are wired to want to help? It’s true! When we suppress that instinct, it creates dissonance within us.

By practicing compassion, we can acknowledge the validity of another person’s feelings, even if we do not agree with their conclusions. For instance, as an example I have a family member that is upset about a political issue, instead of dismissing their concerns, I try to validate their feelings by saying, “I can see why this is important to you.”  or something like this. I love this family member and I want to go as far as I can in building trust and rapport without losing myself in the process.

The role of empathy takes compassion a step further. It involves not only understanding another person’s feelings but also sharing in their emotional experience. When we empathize with someone, we put ourselves in their shoes, allowing us to feel what they feel. This connection can be incredibly powerful, and again let me say that you do not have to OWN what they are feeling, just by letting it wash over you, you get a sense that the journey is mutual.

I have a scenario where a colleague was struggling with a heavy workload. Instead of simply offering advice or solutions, I was able to empathize by saying, “I remember feeling overwhelmed in a similar situation. It can be really tough.”This shared experience can help the other person feel less isolated in their struggles and more supported in finding solutions.”

We want to know that we are not ALONE on this journey. Let me stop here and ask this question, “Are there times when you feel alone and no-one hears you?”

When you do this work, you find out it was one of the most significant barriers to understanding others is our instinct to defend our own positions. When we feel attacked or challenged, our natural response is often to become defensive. This defensiveness can shut down communication and create a hostile environment.This defensiveness can make it more challenging to reach the understanding we initially sought.

Do you really want to fight with friends and family to make your point prevail and be the loudest in the room?

However, when we consciously choose to let go of the need to defend our own views, we create space for open dialogue. This does not mean we abandon our beliefs; rather, we acknowledge that our perspective is just one of many. By doing so, we can engage in conversations without the pressure of needing to “win” or prove ourselves right.

The freedom of non-ownership is one of the most powerful aspects of seeing things from another person’s perspective and is the freedom that comes with not having to own their position. When we engage with someone else’s viewpoint, we can appreciate it without feeling the need to adopt it as our own. This allows for a more fluid exchange of ideas, where we can explore different perspectives without the weight of ownership.

As an example, in a discussion I had about climate change, I encountered someone who had a radically different approach to environmental issues than mine. Instead of feeling compelled to defend my beliefs or adopt theirs, we were simply able to listen and learn from each other.. This openness can lead to a more enriching conversation, where both parties leave with new insights and a deeper understanding of the many complexities involved. To be fair, as a spiritual director for many years and MCC with the International Coaching Federation, I have had years of training on these concepts and again I will say, “it is not easy to really listen”.

Building bridges through dialogue is a great approach to having conversations with compassion and empathy, we can build bridges rather than walls. This approach is critically important in today’s polarized society, where differing opinions can lead to animosity and division.  We want to create a culture of dialogue rather than debate where the outcomes might not be what you expect, remember my post on what happened in Detroit? NO one expected the outcome that we ended up with.

Engaging in respectful conversations allows us to explore the nuances of complex issues. It encourages us to ask questions, seek clarification, and genuinely understand where the other person is coming from. This process not only enriches our own understanding but also helps to humanize the other person, reminding us that behind every opinion is a person with their own story. Here is the main point, When we OWN a conversation or viewpoint many times the other person is not a person to us.

These Practical Steps to Embrace Perspective-Taking ……..

1. Practice Active Listening: Focus on truly hearing what the other person is saying. Avoid interrupting or formulating your response while they speak. Instead, listen with the intent to understand.

2. Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage the other person to share more about their perspective by asking questions that invite elaboration. For example, “What experiences have shaped your view on this issue?”

3. Reflect Back: After the other person has shared their thoughts, reflect back what you’ve heard. This shows that you are engaged and helps clarify any misunderstandings.This also helps to defuse any building anger.

4. Acknowledge Emotions: Recognize and validate the emotions behind the other person’s perspective. A simple acknowledgment can go a long way in fostering connection. And folks, it is ok to have emotions about subjects you care about, but understand those emotions goes a long way.

5. Be Open to Learning: Approach conversations with a mindset of curiosity. Be willing to learn from the other person’s experiences and insights, even if they challenge your own beliefs.

The ability to see things from another person’s perspective is a gift that can transform our interactions and relationships. By embracing compassion and empathy, we create a space for understanding and connection. Letting go of defensiveness and the need to own another person’s position allows for richer, more meaningful conversations.

In a world that feels so divided right now, the practice of perspective-taking can be a powerful antidote. It reminds us that we are all human, navigating our own journeys, and that understanding one another is the first step toward building a more compassionate and empathetic society. So, let us strive to listen, learn, and connect, one conversation at a time. At this point I would like to ask you to reflect on your own experiences with empathy and perspective-taking and if it make sense to post in comments to help others with their journey.

A Few Stories….

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I wanted to share a few stories of self-discovery….

In this world we find ourselves that is bustling with activity and constant distractions, finding a moment of quiet reflection can be challenging at best. Yet, I find the journey toward self-awareness is a rewarding path that had lead to personal growth and deeper connections with others. Through the series of stories below, we can explore how these individuals have embarked on their journey, using tools like journaling, meditation, and the Enneagram to uncover their true selves.

The Journal of Emily: Unveiling Emotional Triggers

Emily always felt overwhelmed by her emotions, especially in stressful situations. She decided to start a journal, hoping to make sense of her feelings. One evening, she sat down with a cup of tea and began writing about her day. As she wrote, she noticed a pattern: her frustration often stemmed from feeling unappreciated at work.

Through her journaling, Emily discovered that her emotional triggers were linked to her need for validation. This realization was a turning point I her life. She began to explore ways to communicate her needs more effectively, both at work and in her personal life. Sharing her insights with a close friend, Emily found support and encouragement, which helped her grow more confident in expressing herself.

David’s Meditation Journey: Finding Peace Within ( I find Davids journey like my own)

David had always been skeptical about meditation. However, after hearing about its benefits, he decided to give it a try. He joined a guided meditation group, where he learned to focus on his breath and observe his thoughts without judgment.

During one session, David was guided through a body scan meditation. As he relaxed, he noticed tension in his shoulders and a knot in his stomach. The instructor encouraged him to breathe into these areas, releasing the tension with each exhale. As he did, David realized that his physical discomfort was linked to his anxiety about an upcoming presentation.

This insight was profound. By acknowledging his anxiety, David was able to address it directly, rather than letting it fester and grow. After the session, he shared his experience with the group, finding comfort in knowing that others faced similar challenges. Meditation became a regular practice for David, helping him navigate life’s stresses with greater ease.

Sarah’s Reflective Discussions: Building Connections

Sarah was part of a community group that met weekly for reflective discussions. Each session began with a simple question: “What did you learn about yourself this week?” At first, Sarah was hesitant to share, worried about being judged. But as she listened to others, she realized that everyone was on their own journey of self-discovery.

One week, Sarah shared a story about a disagreement with a friend. Through the discussion, she recognized that her reaction was rooted in a fear of abandonment. This insight allowed her to approach the situation with empathy, leading to a heartfelt conversation with her friend.

The group became a safe space for Sarah, where she could explore her emotions and learn from others. The support and understanding she found there helped her grow more confident in her relationships, both with herself and others.

Exploring the Enneagram: Tom’s Path to Understanding

Tom had always been curious about personality frameworks, so when he heard about the Enneagram, he was intrigued. He discovered that he was a Type 3, the Achiever, driven by success and validation. This revelation was both enlightening and challenging.

As Tom delved deeper into the Enneagram, he realized that his pursuit of success often overshadowed his true self. He began to question whether his achievements were aligned with his values or simply a means to gain approval. This introspection led Tom to make significant changes in his life, focusing on authenticity rather than external validation.

Tom shared his journey with his Enneagram study group, where others were exploring their own types. Through these discussions, Tom gained new perspectives and learned to appreciate the diversity of motivations and fears that drive human behavior. The Enneagram became a tool for personal growth, helping Tom build more authentic relationships.

When you start on the Ongoing Journey of Self-Discovery you will be excited….

These stories can illustrate for you the transformative power of self-awareness. Whether through journaling, meditation, reflective discussions, or the Enneagram, each individual found a path to deeper understanding and personal growth. Their journeys remind us/me that self-awareness is not a destination but a continuous process of exploration and reflection. You WILL have ups and downs.

As you embark on your own journeys,  remember the importance of community and support. By sharing your insights and learning from one another, you can create a space of understanding and compassion, fostering personal growth and deeper connections with those around us. And together, we can navigate the complexities of this life with greater self-awareness and emotional intelligence.