For a deeper understanding, we will be revisiting the Core Principles of LifeonHigh throughout a series of posts. This post will cover Core Principle number 2, Celebrate Differences.
2) Celebrate Differences – Differing thoughts and opinions make each of us unique. Focus should be placed on the celebration of our differences for our differences are what truly make us alive.
This principle relates to dealing with conflict resolution. In the current state of society, we tend to associate and section ourselves off with those that are like minded. This can be seen in the myriad of religious and spiritual beliefs. The negative affects of a division created by this type of categorization can also be seen throughout history by taking a quick look at the history of war. Major and minor conflicts alike can be traced back to the involved parties having a difference in opinion. Whether countries are battling over resources such as oil, or a group rises up to overthrow a ruler they do not agree with, the basic guiding principle behind the conflict is a difference in opinion.
Celebrating differences, in the scope of LifeonHigh, is listed second behind respect due to the fact that the celebration will break down when mutual respect is not given. This is why it is important to work with the whole of society to internalize these principles. Once respect is established, as a society, we can use differing opinions and view points as a catalyst to cooperate and formulate new solutions that benefit the whole of society. By internalizing a celebratory reaction when confronted with differences, our initial reaction is that of cooperation and resolution, instead of taking an offensive or defensive stance toward the other party.
