Around the world we are witnessing a fundamental shift in how we interact with one another on a global scale while still addressing the needs and traditions of our local communities or nations. This is more than just the result of a growing information age; on a deeper level we are experiencing the collective awakening of our heart center and beginning to unite consciously as a collaborative group.
Around the world we are witnessing a fundamental shift in how we interact with one another on a global scale while still addressing the needs and traditions of our local communities or nations. This is more than just the result of a growing information age; on a deeper level we are experiencing the collective awakening of our heart center and beginning to unite consciously as a collaborative group. Evolving with this new cooperative awareness is the challenge before us.
How do we begin to think globally and still act locally, especially when we are frequently addressing our immediate needs? Take for example the role of nonprofits and NGO’s. By their nature, they are frequently at the leading edge of social change since they are usually the first to respond to the pressing needs of their immediate community. Yet, as leaders of civic and social awareness in an information age, they are also beginning to realize the necessity of connecting and sharing in a collective problem solving approach. Local problems are often the same around the world. The missions of these organizations are rapidly expanding to global proportions with a greater responsibility to understand their evolving role as humanitarian leaders.
These types of organizations are one example where we are beginning to see collective wisdom in action. The volunteers and staff share a mutual heart centered vision while expressing their individual talents to strengthen the collective endeavor. Because they tend to naturally see everything as being interconnected and are keenly aware of available resources, they work from a collaborative viewpoint to ensure that the services and resources achieve the desired outcome. As a result, these organizations are often the forerunners of a paradigm where everyone is considered a part of the whole.
The cornerstone to making collaborations work is honesty, integrity and mutual trust. These simple qualities are paramount to success along with sincere and open communication. One would think that these traits would be obvious to any successful endeavor, yet a quick glance at the present state of our world and it becomes clear that these aspects are often missing.
Whether a humanitarian organization, business or nation, when we keep an open mind and heart and consider the big picture, we educate ourselves about cultural similarities and mutual concerns, learn from our mistakes, take action when necessary, and allow others to teach us from their perspective. We also understand the compelling need to respect each other’s views and methods as we respect our own. When brought together, our collective approach brings fresh ideas, opportunities and perspectives forming a new foundation. This is practical collaboration at its very best.
Harold W. Becker, President and Founder, The Love Foundation, Inc.