rehumanization: “… We need the dandelions of the world … they have this way of continuously popping up where they’re not supposed to be …” ~ John Paul Lederach
If “othering” is the slow descent into conflict … then … is rehumanization the courageous journey back to peace?
John Paul Lederach invites us into the active art of rehumanization … by challenging us to move beyond the “us vs. them” dualities that fuel conflict … and instead adopt the resilient nature of the dandelion: finding the “cracks” of our shared humanity in this fragmented world to sprout persistent, abiding peace …
Upaya Zen Center’s The Measure of Our Humanity – a monthly series – has explored the defining characteristics of our shared essence in these complex times. This ongoing inquiry focuses on how we can actively embody values like inclusion, dignity, justice, and courage as a lived practice, rather than as abstract concepts.
The series began in January with an exploration of Interconnectedness with John Kabat-Zinn. In February, the focus shifted to Courage with Christiana Figueres, Rebecca Solnit, and Joan Halifax, followed by Transformation with Valerie Brown in March. The above video is April’s Rehumanization with John Paul Lederach.
Upaya is dedicated to serving humanity and is supported by donations. This program is offered freely but donations are encouraged. Here is Upaya’s donation page for this program. Please give whatever your heart leads you to.
Upaya has generously given us permission to use this video and related information.
May you realize … the resilience of a dandelion … in your daily life …
Images (edited): 1 (& Featured): Gemini AI Generated. All are for use only on our website/social channels (these images are not permitted to be shared separate from this post).
