Conflict is inevitable.
At some point we will disagree and there will be strife. It's an axiom of humans living together. We are all different and must collectively come to terms with our differences.
Conflict is inevitable.
Does that mean we take a break? To forestall inevitability? Or does it mean conflict provides us with a path forward? A way out. A way to grow into more than we were. Individually and collectively.
Conflict is inevitable.
I am a conflict avoider. I will run at the sight of a conflict coming. What if I had the courage to stand and fight? To claim my voice. It might be ugly and really uncomfortable. And I might emerge with a new understanding of myself and the other.
Conflict is inevitable.
And it doesn't have to lead to war. It can lead to the first steps of peace. Peace of mind. A path to peaceful coexistence with others. Assurance that the conflict is not a threat to my BE-ing. Developing a knowing that I can live through this and thrive through it. I am free to be me. And I can have respect, empathy, and compassion for the others involved.
"When human beings live together, conflict is inevitable. War is not." Daisaku Ikeda, Buddhist philosopher.