Recognizing Interdependence

One of the more sound pieces of advice handed down in recent times was found in a book called "The  Hannover Principles" by William McDonough and Michael Braungart in which they urged readers to "recognize interdependence." Human design, they noted, is entwined with and dependent upon the natural world. While such an observation has been made before by many others, it remains a truism that deserves and I would say even needs repeating. We people seem to have a tendance to lose sight of this piece of reality from time to time. The current mood of nationalism that is dominating much political thinking in the U.S.and elsewhere these days is the latest example.

We will do what we want - what is best for us - without thought of its impact upon others. While this may sound good, it represents short-term thinking that ignores the fact that we are living in a world that we share. Perhaps if we as individuals were literally living are our own planet, then such a philosophy would make sense. But we don't and it doesn't. I live with my wife. Every action I take, therefore, must be taken with her in mind if we are to remain happy and in-sync. Sure, at times that can be frustrating. I am sure it is for her, too.  But such is the responsibility we carry as members of a family unit.

This very much applies to communication. I speak and others hear. My words, regardless of how benign they may be, triggers thoughts and possibly actions on the part of others. Is there any one who does not recognize that? My concern is people may, indeed, recognize this, but they simply do not care. This is dangerous thinking. It ignores our fundamental interdependence that McDonough and Braungart noted. Any time reality is ignored the result, eventually, is not good. We must, therefore, communicate with others in mind just as we much behave that way, too. That may be a burden but it is one we cannot afford to ignore.