More Reflections on the Anatomy of Peace
Our last blog regarding the Anatomy of Peace discussed getting out of the boxes of objectifying others; this forms the basis of the pyramid of change. Once we have exited the box, we can build relationships, actively listen to support people, and challenge people to bring about their own changes.
The Anatomy of Peace explains that–for us to solve a problem at one level of the pyramid, we need to focus on building a stronger relationship–a the deeper level of the pyramid of change. (I.e. I might be willing to listen to your concerns, but if you do not want to share them with me, we’re not there yet.)
Although people cannot be wholly changed by others, they can be invited to change by giving them tools and advice. When inviting this change, we tend to focus entirely on the problem and not the solution. Hearing words like “criticize”, “fix”, “punish”, “correct”, etc.”–do you associate these with negativity or positivity? These words mean we think that there is a problem. Have you ever been motivated to change when someone tells you how wrong you have been? Usually not; instead of adapting a new approach, people tend to get frustrated and simply try harder to force the change, leading to conflict. Making mistakes is another natural process we all do and that is accepted here at Camp Kupugani, as every mistake is a new experience to learn from.
What we aim to continue to cultivate at camp is giving campers the ability to resolve the inevitable conflicts which arise throughout life in a healthy and developmental way with the use of “I-statements” and “clean-up” methods among others.
Our counselors and staff go through rigorous curriculum training every season to provide a strong foundation to support campers, but more importantly to challenge them; this, in turn, invites them to change. Here are some campers thoughts:
- “I learned to respect differences and to work through challenges with support.”
- “It’s a place where I can learn more about myself and others. It’s a chance to meet more people and challenge myself to be a better person.”
- “I learned that ‘equality’ is not treating people the same. ‘Equality’ is treating people based on their needs.”
- “I learned to keep calm and have fun and to never give up no matter what.”
As you read those quotes, do you think that the campers have been giving support to arrive at their own conclusions about the challenges they faced? From understanding people from other cultures to crossing the popular–yet initially daunting–two-wire bridge at camp–all campers feel confident enough to overcome and exceed their own expectations. They are on their way to implementing their pyramid of change.