Fleming has stated the basics of how we should value diversity and what NCN
is attempting to do. It may be a sad fact that we may have to defend
something that should be evident to all, but probably isn't. To value
diversity, one must create and defend a safe environment. Do we all believe
that the NCN in its entirety is a safe environment and if not where is it
unsafe and how shall we make it safer? Can we speak on controversial topics
without being asked to defend our views or being labeled? I am not talking
about the right to speak, but a place where we feel comfortable in doing so.
For the most part, we must listen if we are to have a safe environment.
Listen without making quick judgments and "camping on" to ensure we get our
thoughts out before a topic is closed.
To really create a new world for us all will require a great deal of
listening and tolerance. It will also require changes in our beliefs and
attitudes. Changes we may not be willing to make. Changes we may think others
must make. Changes that we will struggle with for some time to come. On one
hand we will need an abundance of patience and on the other, we have no time
to wait. Balance between what we can do now and what we expect others to do
is critical. If can make improvements in our awareness and sensibilities we
can make these changes occur in our own lives. NCN is already on the path to
newness. We are developing new skills and capabilities in many ways. As we
continue to progress, we will get better. We will have to be prepared to
defend our safe environment and our vision from time to time. Hopefully, not
in a open and vigorous manner but more in the way in which speak about what
we are doing and the results of the work.
Del Wilson
World Knowledge Network
This archive was generated by hypermail 2b30 : Thu Dec 07 2000 - 23:22:11 PST