Regardless of my beliefs or political or religious views, or your own, we as a society are hurting.
As the President of a leadership development non-profit organization, I have felt a lot of turmoil these last couple of weeks with the decision to overturn Roe vs. Wade and how I can mentor leaders as they process what this means for their organizations and our nation.
As someone who identifies as a female and a Christian, you may have thoughts on what I believe and what decision I support. Regardless of my beliefs or political or religious views, or your own, we as a society are hurting.
It has been hard to navigate as leaders in our communities, workplaces, and homes these past weeks. I have watched some of my closest friends struggle with one another as they process the Supreme Court decision through the lens of their beliefs.
The truth is difficult to navigate.
In difficult times, I have found that reflecting on the SLG virtues of Truth and Love has helped me navigate these turbulent waters so that I may choose my words and actions carefully, and I encourage you to do the same.
How do we seek the truth?
I believe there is more to the truth than we as individuals can know. Instead of attacking others, we must take time to listen and understand what is true from another’s perspective. If we listen, while pursuing the greater good, I think we will find that we have more in common with others as we try to do what is best for humanity.
How do we love others during contentious times?
Seek to understand someone with a different view or belief, rather than villainizing them because they do not share your perspective. So if you are pro-choice, listen to your colleague who is pro-life and thank them for their insight. If you are pro-life, listen to your colleague who is pro-choice and thank them for their perspective. Respect their willingness to offer their point of view and how personal this decision is to their family and life.
I have chosen to love my friends and family who are hurting because of the Supreme Court decision. That does not change regardless of their beliefs. I have chosen to listen and learn and reflect; to help unravel the whole truth while empathizing as to how this change affects them. I have chosen to seek help from a mentor, pastor, my husband and often, prayer when I struggle with answers and actions.
How will you choose to act?
As you choose your actions, make sure it reflects the Core of who you are; lead authentically and genuinely in service to others.
Lead with Love and Truth.