Interacting with one another is no easy task especially in this time of technology-facilitated isolation. All too easy it is to hide behind a Kindle, cell phone or iPod. One is in a room full of people and still not make human contact. For the sake of self-reflection, I feel compelled to exercise full disclosure in that I can easily fall prey to this dynamic. Even when I pry my eyes from the technology, I tend to play the role of observer for a bit; assessing the environment and its players.
Being part of the program has enlightened me. I have found myself thrown into an environment where the give and take of interaction is essential to being successful in the program. When at work, there is less concern around interaction, I am responsible for developing and running a program smoothly, efficiently and successfully, and I know how to lead the team of counselors to help make that happen. When meeting with clients I already know before I even meet them that they are anxious, fearful and full of self-blaming messages about their experience. In turn, I have developed skills to help them feel safe, comfortable and respected. Both situations have intrinsic motivators for interpersonal connection because, in these situations, it is not about me; it is about the needs of others and the greater good. Therefore, in the spirit of Jung "Your visions will become clear only when you can look into your own heart." It is time I awaken to a better understanding of how I interact in the world and be aware of my own internal processes.
For as long as I can remember I have been aware of how different we all are. I am not colorblind; Age blind; Gender blind; Or any other blind. Growing up on the 70's talking about differences was provocative and wrong except when pointing out stereotypes or making a joke about another culture, race or ethnicity. To be realistic, this dynamic still plays out; however, I would like to think that most people have come to a place were talking about diversity and all the incredible differences we bring to the table is, in fact, not only acceptable but encouraged.