Unity – Diversity Toward Resolution We have already discussed that the point where the previously avoided differences begin to emerge can become the crisis point of any group. We see this perhaps most clearly in a marriage situation after the honeymoon period is over. The initial enchantment between the two partners begins to fade and the parts of the other that were hidden from view behind the fading fascination start to emerge. The relationship now has to find a basis other than those things they share in common that initially brought them together. Now they have to learn to build their marriage on something that can embrace these newly found differences. What first brought them together, i.e. what they share, is hopefully strong enough to hold the relationship until that new foundation is built. Many couples are able to survive this phase of their relationship, but for others, creating a deeper foundation may be too difficult for them. To my knowledge there are presently few resources available to guide group formation and deal with differences other than working with what was the original common ground and building on that. The assumption has been that differences divide and what we can agree on unites. This view is based on the assumption that the stability of a group depends on its members being willing to suppress their uniqueness or individuality for the sake of the group. Paradoxically, a weakening of this determination to remain a strong individual correspondingly weakens the group. A number of questions have emerged from what has been said so far:
I hope what you've read so far has shed some light on these questions and has raised other questions that are practical and exciting. I hope you have come to see not only that it is possible to create an environment where both unity and diversity can thrive, but also that they can support each other in such a way as to create something that has been experienced by many of us only in moments. There has always been the potential to have this experience on an on-going basis. The means and understanding have been missing but have now emerged. It will not come automatically for as with most things, the way, even if simple, is not necessarily easy. But the way is now known and with commitment, determination and sacrifice we can move on. It is now possible for groups, communities, nations to come together in such a way as to bring more fulfillment and peace to all concerned. Trying it out will bring the experience of, and contact with, a reality that cannot be ignored and left behind. This is the motivation that will make it a reality. May you be part of a group, community or nation that carries it forward, and come to experience the exhilaration and the transformation of both the collective and your own self. Thank you for making your way to this point. If what I have offered here sounds interesting to you, drop me a line. The application of unity-diversity has been further developed in the website for Sui Generis. Sui Generis is a Latin term, meaning "of its own kind", i.e. unique and individual, in its own class. This describes well the goal of Sui Generis, which is to lay the foundation for the establishment of a community that respects and promotes the uniqueness and individuality of each person, and empower them to grow into who they are truly called to be. While the development of individuality often happens at the expense of the integrity of the community, Sui Generis does this in such a way as to create cooperation and cohesiveness. This community can in turn be a model for the transformation of society at large, encouraging it to embody the same principles, practices, and values.
Feedback or comments welcome.
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