Is it possible for people with radically differing world views to understand each other?

[Gareth]

It seems to me that the history of human beings is one of serial misunderstandings and mistrust; leading almost inevitably to conflict. Does anyone think that this kind of thing can be overcome? Can anyone who believes, for example, that Black is White really see the point of view of the person who believes that White is Black?

[James Williams]

What a great discussion Gareth, in short I would say that it is possible for people to resolve conflict, however it depends on the Conciosuness and beleifs of those involved e.g. False Ego or True Soul Conciousness. I would say that when a Person has gone through a period of Self-realisation and knows their True self and operates from the inherent qualities and Conciousness of Love and Kindness (Understanding) then 'ALL' conflict can be resolved through the understanding of Oneness i.e. an Understanding of the Love and Conciousness that pervades all life. Humanity is currently going through a great and wonderful shift in Conciousness (fingers crossed :) lol
Black & White - for me, this issue relates to duality, right and wrong, good and bad etc... when two people know themselves, their true selves, they are beyond duality, and from a point of what could be termed Love, all duality, seperateness and conflict is resolved.

[Rebecca Lowe]

Interesting post! In answer to Gareth's question, yes, I do believe that conflict and misunderstanding does not have to be the only way, and I have to keep on holding to that hope, even when the world about me seems not to confirm it. I think the starting point is listening...encouraging people of different faiths and cultures to listen and learn from one another's worldviews and experiences. Whilst people are busy trying to convince one another that theirs is the only 'right' way there can never be any progress; we have to learn to listen and to find the points where we meet, in our common humanity. In fact, I think there is far more that unites than divides us, but inevitably there may be some points where we differ. In such cases, I think it is important to develop an attitude of mutual respect and honesty, and be willing to have our views challenged and changed.

I am slowly learning the value of listening, also that faith is a journey, not a destination.

[Gareth]

Rebecca: I think listening must hold a part of the key to things. We can learn so much from just listening to people.

[Gareth]

Interesting point James - about getting 'beyond duality'; but doesn't this imply an objectivity which is more a kind of a hope than a concrete reality?

[James Williams]

HI Gareth, please excuse me, not sure I understand the question, would you mind elaborating? :o)
i'll have a go at clarifying my view and look forward to continuing this dialogue.

"Imply an objectivity " It can be easy to understand the perspective of another from a state of unconditional love (beyond duality) from a state of non-judgment, and from understanding i.e. from a Consciousness in alignment with the Soul self.
From here , a belief is only a belief, whether one person thinks something is black and another white, they are only perspectives/ideas/viewpoints. If two people are living from within a box of beliefs, they could well disagree, remain separate and possibly in conflict. If the same people/humanity live from a state of Unconditional love and an understanding and honoring of the inherent Nature of all life, then conflict of all kind can be resolved very easily.

"is more a kind of a hope than a concrete reality?" I think everyone is on their own Journey/Path (of evolution) and at various points between Lower Ego and Higher Soul Consciousness, often going two steps forward and one back etc :o) so for many people this is a reality and for many this is a hope, and for those that hope soon it ill become their reality.

When True Wisdom, Peace, Love etc... integrate into one's Consciousness, duality and conflict can be transcended.

Of course all of this is only my belief lol :o)

Hey, if you fancy discussing this over a cuppa in town - let me know G?

[Gareth]

Love to have a cuppa!

[James Williams]

Great, just sent email with contact details... JoWo