From the Editor's Computer
As I sit at my desk putting the finishing
touches on this issue, the weather outside features record-breaking
temperatures and wind-chills. At the
same time, the sunshine is shining directly on me and it is getting quite
hot! It is becoming more and more
noticeable that the sun is getting warmer, which means spring is getting
closer.
The contrast between the two extremes
reminded me of Aesop’s fable about the “North Wind and the Sun.” The North Wind and Sun make a deal to see who
is stronger. For the challenge they
decide to see if they can get a man walking below them to take his coat off.
The cocky wind is sure of his success as he
huffs and puffs colder and colder, and even colder air around the man. Of course, the man just clutches his coat
even more tightly against the harsh onslaught.
While he is getting worried, the wind
doesn’t give up right away. He puts out
more effort to no avail. The man refuses
to remove his coat and the wind is left a mere wisp of his former self.
Then it’s the sun’s turn. With little effort, and much warmth, in no
time the sun’s heat results in the man removing his coat. Thus proving the sun’s superiority.
While there are many variations of the
“moral” of this tale, one undeniable truth of the fable is that forcing people
to do what you want rarely works. In
fact, forcing people to adopt a certain behaviour, and do things your way,
usually results in them displaying the opposite behaviour.
On the other hand, gently and warmly
presenting your views, ideas, requests, or desires, can often persuade the
person to see the situation from your
point of view without any confrontations.
As we learn from the sun, a little warmth
and encouragement can make a big difference.
You don’t need to generate a warmth as strong and great as the sun, for even the tiny flame
of a match generates heat and can melt water or wax.
So never underestimate your impact on
difficult people or situations - no matter how small it may seem.
Beth
Read the complete issue of The Chautauqua here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LfVqhujtLh6lHnWeZiPACTYxkaEt1Iav/view?usp=sharing
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