Cultivate Harmony

Scientists have long determined the universe is composed of two building blocks: matter and energy. Looking more closely one could argue matter and energy are actually the same phenomenon in different forms, but rather than engage in that debate, I offer for consideration two concepts to broaden your perspective on the life you lead in this world of things and motion: contrast and conflict.

Developing harmony in a world of conflict is the difference between experiencing a fulfilling, rewarding, exciting life or enduring a painful, depressing, and tiresome one.

Contrast is a necessary component of what defines this existence, what characterizes the universe we see and sense. Ours is a dualistic reality, a reality of distinctions, observable differences, unique signatures, shades of grey — contrast. In our dualistic world we cannot have one side without the other. All events, all circumstances, all happenings, all forms, come into awareness as packaged deals. Contrast allows us to distinguish any "this" from "that" - any single thing from all other things.

Sir Isaac Newton's third law of motion states that every action has an equal and opposite reaction and every force has an opposing force. Newton, through his energy expression, emphasizes the duality of the natural world, the authenticity of opposites.

Polar opposites are extreme contrasts between things - matter. Conflict, on the other hand, is the action of opposing forces, competing energy. Conflict is the motion of contrast; where apparently disconnected forces work toward what appear to be opposing, non-harmonious ends.

This existence presents infinite possibilities. The potential for harmony or discord manifest in every situation. Opportunity is inherent in every crisis just as tragedy lurks in the shadow of each triumph. Conflict appears as disparate interests, divergent forces, or distinct intent. The friction of conflict is the natural law of resistance that, as strange as it seems, holds everything together. There is no separating opposites.

Like contrast, conflict is a necessary ingredient of this experience. Conflict need not be negative, however. Good things can and do come from conflict. The friction of contrary interests is a means of summoning energy and broadening perspective, a means to gaining strength.

The potential for harmony exists as one with the potential for discord. Though both prospects exist, our orientation and judgment will not necessarily bring both to light. Human nature often tends to amplify contrast and empower conflict. We highlight differences as opposed to seek similarities. To understand the world around us, we most often separate what are interconnected, codependent pieces into isolated, independent parts. In so doing we often create greater disparity, sharpen contrast, and reinforce conflict. If you can recognize this about yourself, you can begin to make a change.

To succeed in life, recognize you cause circumstances to be and influence outcomes by your attitude and orientation. The choices you make either sharpen or soften contrast and conflict. You have the power to harmonize discordant forces - so nurture harmony. By nurturing harmony you will achieve unity of intent. Unity of intent will lead to unity of purpose and ultimately to unity of action.

Cultivate harmony and you will become aware: you are in this with everyone else. Despite contrast, despite conflict - all are one.


Copyright (c) 2010 Scott F Paradis