The Power of Consciousness and Conversation in Transformative Change
As a Human Resources Consultant and DEI Thought Leader, I find myself constantly immersed in discussions about transformative change in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). These discussions revolve around the seven Cs of transformative change: consciousness, conversation, context, content, collaboration, cadence, and choice. Among these, consciousness and conversation stand out as pillars that underpin the journey towards creating meaningful change.
Consciousness, the first of the Cs, is a profound concept that resonates deeply with me. It raises the question: Even if I recognize my implicit biases, who do I genuinely care about? This question delves into the essence of our existence, encouraging us to transcend the physical and explore the uncharted territory of our minds and hearts.
Creating a culture of noticing is a transformative step. It prompts us to ask: Can you see me? Am I truly being seen? Heard? It’s a realization that what we perceive in others is filtered through the lenses of our own minds, shaped by our experiences, biases, and assumptions. It’s akin to the work of Byron Katie, who explores the order of creation — the way we form assumptions about others without truly understanding their inner worlds.
The discussion about near-death experiences and moments of vulnerability, like being on an intubator with brain fog, adds another layer to our consciousness journey. It makes us reflect on our identities and how personal stories can change our consciousness. These experiences challenge us to ponder who we are now and what we project when we walk into a room.
The idea of fostering and adopting, the mother and father within us, resonates deeply. It speaks to embracing the nurturing side of our personalities and how significant relationships, like the arrival of someone named Shaun, can transform us.
The mention of naming children based on the moon in Indian culture highlights the rich tapestry of human diversity and how different cultures perceive and connect with the world around them. It’s a reminder that under the same moon and stars, diverse individuals exist, each with their unique stories and backgrounds.
Using difference as a resource is a perspective that grounds me in appreciating diversity and the potential for co-creation. It emphasizes the distinction between talking and conversation — the latter being a deeper, more meaningful exchange where each participant takes up space and holds it for others.
However, as we navigate the landscape of belonging, we realize that it’s possible to belong but not be welcomed. This paradox underscores the importance of the context and relationships within a space. Hope and optimism, while valuable, can be passive, whereas active creation fosters a sense of belonging.
The concept of loving without being loved and belonging without being welcomed invites us to explore the dynamics of care and reciprocity in our relationships. It challenges us to consider whether we are truly seen and heard, or if we are merely present in a space.
The theme of assumptions and changes in context altering our mindset is a critical aspect of conscious evolution. It underscores the need for us to care about each other and embrace closeness, even when it makes us uncomfortable.
Cultural appropriation is a poignant reminder of the importance of inclusivity and curiosity rather than judgment. Labels and identifiers should not be barriers to belonging. Instead, they should be invitations to explore and understand one another better.
Community is a concept that has been on my mind lately. I’ve realized that focusing on doing, rather than being, can hinder our ability to make people feel genuinely welcome. Creating the capacity for welcomeness requires self-awareness and a willingness to show up authentically in relationships.
Listening is a powerful tool in fostering understanding, and sometimes, it’s more important than talking. It’s a reminder that we are all human, each with our unique experiences, and there’s value in simply being present and listening to one another.
As I reflect on these profound discussions, I’m reminded that we all love each other just for being human. However, I’m also aware of the complexities surrounding whiteness and how it can affect the dynamics of feeling welcomed. It’s a delicate balance to navigate, one that requires ongoing introspection and dialogue.
In conclusion, the power of consciousness and conversation in transformative change cannot be understated. These discussions have illuminated the importance of self-awareness, empathy, and the capacity to create spaces where everyone feels seen and heard. It’s a journey of continuous learning, growth, and above all, care for one another.
These insights have left a lasting impact on my perspective as a Human Resources Consultant and DEI Thought Leader, reinforcing the significance of these discussions in driving meaningful change within organizations and communities.
Effenus Henderson
