Isn't it amazing when the lyrics of a song just hit you right in the gut? I was working out this morning when this song came over my headphones with the first line of "they told me everybody's 15 minutes in a different time zone" and I had to catch my breath because it's the perfect analogy for how I've been feeling lately.
This world is made up of 7.5 billion people and not a single one is the same. We all have different opinions, perspectives, expectations and beliefs which can literally put us in a completely different place from each other. Often, this is why conflict occurs; we are unable to understand why the other person behaves this way or thinks that way, failing to consider that this is not only normal but it is inevitable. And, if you think about it, it's beautiful! We have the opportunity, every single day, to see the world in a different way. By just connecting and interacting with people, we get to experience life through new eyes. Unfortunately, we rarely think of it this way - instead we get frustrated, angry and defensive because what we think or do may be challenged by others.
What could your life look like if, instead of getting angry at someone because they don't think the same way as you, you asked yourself wether or not they may just be in a different time zone?! And, even more, if that time zone could possibly be 15 minutes ahead of yours? Could that person's perspective be so different because they have been where you currently are and are just trying to save you from the mistakes/heartache they have already experienced? Think about it.
Conflict in life is to be expected; we should all be challenging each other in order for us to really level up and be our best. Conflict is healthy if it is approached in this way. However, when was the last time you experienced conflict is a positive way?
My mid-week challenge to myself, and I invite you to join me, is to drop the defense mechanisms, take down the walls and experience my interactions with other people as a way to learn something new. We all have gifts to share, if we are just courageous enough to share and humble enough to receive.
"They told me everybody's 15 minutes in a different time zone,
And since I have it at the moment you're the one I want to shine my light on".
- Major Lazer
Sabs xxx
