Conflict

In a time when we are all constantly being funneled toward petty and superficial conflicts – we must save our energy for only that conflict which is necessary. Meeting every interpersonal dispute and communal rift with the same venom we’ve had forced on us perpetuates an ugly cycle. Asking ourselves what is actually worth fighting for, and if we are navigating conflict healthily, is critical. For the safety and stability of our communities, and for rising to face today’s dire challenges with all our strength.

“When the pride of intellect and caste is broken; when we grovel in the dust of humiliation; when sickness and sorrow come, and the shadow of death falls upon us, and there is no hope elsewhere – we turn to God, who sometimes swallows the insult, and answers the appeal.”

Charles W. Chesnutt, USA

Conflict

“What is inflated too much, will burst into fragments.”

“Bullies are…cowards at heart and may be credited with a pretty safe instinct in scenting their prey.”

“Those motivated by an evil spirit pick on the most vulnerable.”

“Kids can find a way into hip-hop by staying true to their instinct toward rebellion and change.”

“…One man cannot hold another man down in the ditch without remaining down in the ditch with him.”

“There is a fire blowing at the mouse’s tail; he thinks it’s a cool breeze.”

“There is bound to be a knot in a very long string.”

“Frog says, what is a joke to you is death for me.”

“The higher the monkey climbs, the more his hind parts show.”

“The distance to the next mile post depends on the mud in the road.”

“He who doesn’t clean his mouth before breakfast always complains that the food is sour.”

“Knowledge without wisdom is like water in the sand.”

“A man who uses force is afraid of reasoning.”

“One falsehood spoils a thousand truths.”

“Fingers pointed always point away from the one doing the pointing.”

“The price of hating other human beings is loving oneself less.”

“When the pride of intellect and caste is broken; when we grovel in the dust of humiliation; when sickness and sorrow come, and the shadow of death falls upon us, and there is no hope elsewhere – we turn to God, who sometimes swallows the insult, and answers the appeal.”

“The key that opens is also the key that locks.”

“You can hide the fire, but what about the smoke?”

Don’t be like Anancy, who “sees trouble in the bushes and takes it home.”

“An egg seller doesn’t start a fight in the market.”

“Those setting in motion the forces of evil cannot always control them afterwards.”

“Someone who makes a mess doesn’t remember it, but the one who steps in it does.”

“Do not call to a dog with a whip in your hand.”

“A man’s ruin lies in his tongue.”

“If a fish emerges from a river bottom warning of an hungry alligator down there, believe him.”

“If your hand is caught in the devil’s mouth, be careful when pulling it out.”

“Sometimes that light at the end of the tunnel is a train.”

“One does well to distrust a tamed tiger.”

“The goat looks into your face before it puts its mouth into your basket.”

“Not every grin or smile is well-intentioned.”

“Be careful what you get yourself into.”

“Just because the lizard nods his head, doesn’t mean he’s in agreement.”

“Sweet words are not enough to make me change my choices.”

“Don’t think there are no crocodiles just because the water is calm.”