There’s a great quote by John D. Rockefeller. He was a very successful man and very wealthy. But that did not make him immune to problems and conflict. If anything, there were more people in his daily life, and therefore, more conflict. His quote goes like this:
“The ability to deal with people is as purchasable a commodity as sugar or coffee, and I will pay more for that ability than for any other under the sun.”
A great statement to be sure.
Conflict does happen. And it happens to the best of us. But can it be resolved? Sometimes yes, and sometimes…no. Resolving conflict means that 2 sides are either agreeing to disagree and are willing to move forward together, or, the disagreement is simply a deal breaker. One party feels very injured, and if the other party is not willing to make things better, the injured party many times moves in the opposite direction.
If both sides dig in their heels and are not willing to see the other person’s side, or see that perhaps they are wrong, you have a problem. And sometimes, that problem just can’t be solved.
For example. You and I agree Hitler was very very wrong. He thought his cause was noble. You and I strongly disagree with that notion. So…NO resolution there for either side.
Whatever conflict you are facing today, ask yourself these questions:
1. Is this conflict worth it? Is there a fight here that I need to win. Must win. Or should morally win?
2. Is this conflict something that can be resolved? Yes, or no?
3. Should I keep investing, working to resolve, this conflict, or is it something I need to accept and leave alone? Are there changes I can and should make?
Only you know the answer to those questions. But it’s always worth taking a deeper look.
In the meantime, you may not need to make any decisions, you might just need some fresh perspective. Take a deep breath, get some new insight and input, and see where it takes you.
And for some wise words, maybe these will shed some light on the issue.
James 4:1 ¶ Where do you think all these appalling wars and quarrels come from? Do you think they just happen? Think again. They come about because you want your own way, and fight for it deep inside yourselves.
Just my thoughts,
S.
