Heart Leadership

Based on Gallup polls in Fall of 2022, it appears our faith in one another is at its lowest point in recorded history. Something tells me, it may be worse than mere numbers show. Because when we talk about faith in another, we are also referring to defensiveness, contempt, criticism and complete distrust. And all of these seem to be at a boiling point for many.

How can we possibly move forward? Well, the remedy may just be in the act of atonement – making amends for an offense, wrongdoing or injury.

Atonement truly becomes necessary when an individual or group has dishonored core beliefs and/or values of another. So, how might atonement work?

First, we must examine the role we played in the conflict and take personal responsibility for our words and deeds. And this is not easy. It takes a bit of fearlessness and courage to consider the part that we are responsible for in any conflict. And then take it one step further and invest in resolution.

The challenge: To be courageous when our ‘love’ for others is less than spectacular – when our humanity seems to be increasingly pale. But one thing that might help, is to remember that all of us, no matter who we are, still dream dreams. We still have goals and desires for the future, our family, our friends. This is something that rises above all the labels we can place on one another.

This could take a bit of practice, but like any other skill we wish to master, it gets easier the more we engage. And so what specific skills might be useful to allow us to move from cynic to optimist as it relates to our shared humanity and the act of atonement.

- Stop being defensive. Acknowledge how you contributed to the less than stellar situation.

- Validate, don’t persuade – There is not always an argument to win. You don’t have to endorse another’s actions or words, but you can certainly recognize that where they stand on a topic is just as important as where you stand.

Be courageous. Consider leading from your heart when there is discord. This can begin the healing and repairing and actually shows others you have the audacity to dream for a healthier tomorrow.