In some of my anonymous activist work, I’ve been privy to institutions’ front side and backside. There’s an image presented to the outside world and a very different activity behind the scenes.
I’m sure we can all relate to these two sides in the institutions, organizations, communities, and circles we’ve been part of. And of course, in our relationships with each other and even when we look in the mirror.
Yet, why is it worth bringing up in this message?
Because we readily forget this is happening. And we still form stubborn, hardened opinions based on only what we are shown.
As it relates to Russia and Ukraine, let us not blindly believe what we hear is the complete picture of the conflict. In no conflict do we see the full picture.
Let us instead assume that a LOT is going on behind the scenes. So many layers that by the time information reaches us, it will have passed through several adjustments.
We’ll never really know the full picture — a critical piece of information that we don’t have access to. Or a piece of information that was shared but not accurate.
Often a single detail can shift our entire perspective of an event.
What can we do if we can’t count on the information we receive?
Despite all the details we have, don’t have, or don’t accurately have, we can aspire to be as loving as possible towards everyone. And we can keep our minds open to shifting, continuously.
Despite what we know or don’t know, we always do have that capacity to commit to love each and every one.
Ranjeeth Thunga
Perspective Mapper
rkt@perspectivemapper.org
(please get in touch if we can help you in your conflicts)