Podcasts > Poetry Unbound > Joy Harjo — Poems as Teachers | Ep 2

Joy Harjo — Poems as Teachers | Ep 2

By On Being Studios

In this Poetry Unbound episode, host Pádraig Ó Tuama explores Joy Harjo's perspective on conflict resolution through her poetry. The discussion delves into the importance of recognizing the holistic context of conflicts, including the land, ancestors, and future generations. Harjo's work emphasizes adopting a humble, justice-oriented approach, active listening, and embracing humility while maintaining fairness.

Ó Tuama highlights creative techniques for navigating conflict constructively, such as leveraging physical movement and transcending instinctual predator-prey dynamics. The episode also explores the role of the natural world as a witness and stakeholder in conflict, calling for actions aligned with timeless cycles that extend beyond human experiences.

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Joy Harjo — Poems as Teachers | Ep 2

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Joy Harjo — Poems as Teachers | Ep 2

1-Page Summary

Principles and practices of effective conflict resolution

Recognize the holistic context of conflict

Joy Harjo emphasizes recognizing the land, ancestors, and future generations as stakeholders in conflict resolution. Her poem "Conflict Resolution for Holy Beings" directs us to consult with the natural world and ensure goodwill toward the spirits of the lands, according to Pádraig Ó Tuama. By invoking nature's timeless wisdom, we gain perspective on the lands we inhabit.

Adopt a humble, justice-oriented approach to conflict

Harjo advises avoiding self-aggrandizement and instead "speaking the language of justice." Her work signals the importance of active listening and embracing humility while maintaining a commitment to fairness and understanding.

Shifting perspectives and attitudes to navigate conflict constructively

Ó Tuama highlights creative approaches that promote understanding and relational harmony over confrontation.

Leverage physical movement to defuse confrontation

He recounts an incident where two individuals resolved workplace tensions by simply taking a walk together and sharing a chocolate bar. The act of walking side-by-side, rather than face-to-face, facilitated new perspectives on their situation.

Transcend animalistic predator-prey dynamics

Ó Tuama argues humans thrive when they move beyond instinctual predator-prey dynamics. Recognizing the inherent dignity of all, even adversaries, and envisioning relational harmony beyond survival instincts can pave the way for compassionate conflict resolution.

The role of the natural world and future generations in conflict resolution

The land itself is a witness and stakeholder in conflict

Harjo refers to the land as "a being who remembers everything," underscoring its role as witness to history. Consideration for future generations compels accountability in seeking truth that honors our legacy.

Interconnection with the broader web of life

Ó Tuama discusses ecosystems' interconnectedness. Harjo acknowledges non-human perspectives like deer, turtle, and crane. Her work reminds us that natural cycles transcend human experiences, calling for our actions to align with these timeless patterns.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Joy Harjo is a prominent Native American poet, musician, and author. Her poem "Conflict Resolution for Holy Beings" explores themes of conflict, spirituality, and connection to the natural world. In this work, she emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the interconnectedness of all beings and seeking harmony in resolving conflicts. Harjo's writing often draws on Native American traditions, history, and perspectives, offering a unique and profound insight into issues of conflict resolution and reconciliation.
  • Pádraig Ó Tuama is an Irish poet, theologian, and conflict mediator known for his work on peacebuilding and reconciliation. He emphasizes the importance of empathy, storytelling, and creative approaches in resolving conflicts. Ó Tuama often integrates elements of spirituality and nature into his conflict resolution strategies, highlighting the interconnectedness of all beings. His approach focuses on fostering understanding and harmony through dialogue and shared experiences.
  • In conflict resolution, "speaking the language of justice" means communicating in a way that prioritizes fairness, equity, and ethical principles. It involves using words and actions that uphold the values of justice and equality for all parties involved. This approach emphasizes the importance of addressing conflicts with a focus on what is morally right and just, aiming to create resolutions that are perceived as fair and balanced by all stakeholders.
  • Leveraging physical movement to defuse confrontation involves using activities like walking together to create a more relaxed and open atmosphere for communication. This approach can help shift perspectives and reduce tension by changing the physical dynamics of the interaction. By engaging in shared physical activities, individuals can foster empathy and understanding, leading to more constructive conflict resolution. This method emphasizes the importance of non-verbal communication and the impact of body language on conflict dynamics.
  • Transcending animalistic predator-prey dynamics in conflict resolution involves moving beyond instinctual behaviors of dominance and submission. It emphasizes recognizing the dignity and humanity of all parties involved, even adversaries. By shifting focus from competition to cooperation, conflict resolution can be approached with compassion and understanding. This approach aims to foster relational harmony and mutual respect, rather than perpetuating power struggles.
  • The concept of the natural world as a witness and stakeholder in conflict resolution emphasizes the idea that nature holds memories and experiences that can influence how conflicts are understood and resolved. This perspective suggests that the land itself plays an active role in the narratives of human conflicts, serving as a silent observer with a stake in the outcomes. By acknowledging the natural world as a witness, it encourages a deeper sense of responsibility and accountability in addressing conflicts, considering the impact on not just present but also future generations. This viewpoint underscores the interconnectedness between human actions and the environment, highlighting the importance of aligning conflict resolution efforts with the broader ecological context.
  • Understanding the interconnection with the broader web of life in conflict resolution involves recognizing that all living beings and ecosystems are intricately linked. This perspective emphasizes that our actions and decisions impact not just individuals but the entire interconnected system of life on Earth. By acknowledging this interconnectedness, we can approach conflict resolution with a holistic view that considers the well-being of all beings and the environment. This approach encourages us to seek solutions that promote harmony and balance within the broader web of life.

Counterarguments

  • While recognizing the holistic context of conflict is valuable, it may not always be practical or relevant in certain disputes, especially those requiring immediate, concrete solutions.
  • Consulting with the natural world and considering non-human perspectives can enrich our understanding, but it may not be feasible in all conflict resolution scenarios, particularly in urban or technologically driven environments.
  • Invoking nature's timeless wisdom is a metaphorical approach that might not resonate with all cultures or individuals, who may prefer more empirical or secular methods of conflict resolution.
  • Emphasizing humility and a justice-oriented approach is noble, but it can sometimes conflict with the need for assertiveness and clear boundaries in resolution processes.
  • Creative approaches to conflict resolution, such as physical movement, may not be suitable for all conflicts, especially those that are deeply entrenched or involve parties who are not physically able to engage in such activities.
  • The idea of transcending predator-prey dynamics assumes that all parties are willing and able to engage in such a transformation, which may not be the case in conflicts where power imbalances are significant and one party may not have the luxury to envision relational harmony.
  • The land as a witness and stakeholder is a concept that may not be legally or culturally recognized in all contexts, potentially limiting its applicability in formal conflict resolution settings.
  • While considering future generations is important, it may also lead to decision paralysis or excessive caution, as the impact on future generations can be difficult to predict with certainty.
  • Acknowledging ecosystems' interconnectedness is crucial, but in some conflicts, this broad perspective might overshadow immediate human needs and concerns, leading to resolutions that are not viable in the short term.

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Joy Harjo — Poems as Teachers | Ep 2

Principles and practices of effective conflict resolution

Joy Harjo's and Pádraig Ó Tuama's insights reflect a profound connection to the land and a justice-oriented approach to resolving conflicts.

Recognize the holistic context of conflict

Harjo’s work teaches us to acknowledge the greater context in which conflicts arise, which includes not only the present stakeholders but also the land, its ancestors, and future generations.

Acknowledge the land, ancestors, and future generations as stakeholders in conflict

In Joy Harjo's poem "Conflict Resolution for Holy Beings," there is a strong emphasis on recognizing the importance of the land. The poem begins with the directive to "Recognize whose lands these are on which we stand," inviting us to consult with the deer, turtle, and crane and ensure the spirits of the lands are treated with goodwill. It is suggested that the land itself "remembers everything," according to Pádraig Ó Tuama. This recognition extends to the acknowledgement that our actions in conflict resolution will be answered to future generations.

Invoke the wisdom and perspective of the natural world

Harjo's poem suggests seeking out the insights of the natural world as a way to gain perspective on the lands we inhabit. By consulting with animals like the deer, turtle, and crane, we are prompted to consider the timeless wisdom inherent to the natural environment around us.

Adopt a humble, justice-oriented approach to conflict

The poem also encourages a stance of humility and justice when addressing conflict.

Avoi ...

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Principles and practices of effective conflict resolution

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Understanding the land, ancestors, and future generations as stakeholders in conflict involves recognizing their interconnected roles in shaping the context and outcomes of disputes. This perspective emphasizes the impact of historical legacies, environmental considerations, and the implications of current decisions on future inheritors. By acknowledging these broader dimensions, conflict resolution efforts can strive for more inclusive, sustainable, and just outcomes.
  • To invoke the wisdom and perspective of the natural world, one can engage in practices like spending time in nature, observing the behavior of animals, and reflecting on the interconnectedness of all living beings. This process involves being mindful of the lessons nature can offer, such as patience from observing a tree grow or adaptability from watching animals in their habitats. By immersing oneself in the natural world and being open to learning from it, one can gain insights and perspectives that can be applied to various aspects of life, including conflict resolution.
  • The "language of justice" emphasizes communicating in a way that prioritizes fairness, equity, and the well-being of all involved in a conflict. It involves speaking and acting in a manner that upholds principles of justice and equality, rather than focusing on self-promotion or ego. This approach aims to foster understanding, respect, and cooperation among conflicting parties by centering on what is morally right a ...

Counterarguments

  • While recognizing the holistic context of conflict is valuable, it may sometimes be impractical or overwhelming to consider all stakeholders, especially when dealing with urgent or time-sensitive issues.
  • Acknowledging the land and non-human entities in conflict resolution can be seen as metaphorical and may not always translate into actionable or legally recognized practices in modern dispute resolution frameworks.
  • Invoking the wisdom of the natural world assumes that nature holds insights applicable to human conflicts, which may not always be the case, especially in complex, human-created systems and societies.
  • A humble, justice-oriented approach is ideal but may not always be feasible in situations where power dynamics are imbalanced and one party is not willing to engage in equitable dialogue.
  • Speaking the "language of justice" presumes ...

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Joy Harjo — Poems as Teachers | Ep 2

Shifting perspectives and attitudes to navigate conflict constructively

Ó Tuama highlights alternative methods to traditional confrontational dynamics in resolving conflict, advocating for strategies that promote understanding and relational harmony.

Leverage physical movement to defuse confrontation

Ó Tuama recounts a creative approach to conflict resolution through the simple act of walking together.

Walking together can foster new understanding

He describes an incident where two individuals locked in a long-term workplace conflict were asked to take a walk and share a chocolate bar. The physical activity of walking, being side by side rather than face to face, and the casual nature of sharing something sweet facilitated a better understanding of one another. Upon returning, the parties had developed a new comprehension of each other's viewpoints and a fresh perspective on their situation.

Changing body position can shift mental orientation

Ó Tuama suggests that the act of walking and not being in a confrontational stance contributed to their new understanding. Walking together provided an opportunity for silence and reflection, physical movements that can help to shift mental orientation and foster alternative pathways to resolution.

Transcend animalistic predator-prey dynamics

Ó Tuama implores a consideration of conflict that transcends the fundamental instincts of animals in the wild.

Recognize the inherent dignity of all parties, even adversaries

He reflects on the dynamic of a panther in the wild who waits for it ...

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Shifting perspectives and attitudes to navigate conflict constructively

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • In the context of human conflict, transcending animalistic predator-prey dynamics means moving beyond instinctual behaviors of dominance and aggression seen in the wild. It involves recognizing the dignity of all parties involved, even those perceived as adversaries, to foster understanding and cooperation. By envisioning relationships based on mutual respect rather than survival instincts, humans can strive for more compassionate and constructive conflict resolution. This approach emphasizes empathy, communication, and seeking common ground to resolve conflicts peacefully.
  • Physical movement and changing body position during conflict resolution can lead to a shift in perspective by altering the dynamics of the interaction, creating a more relaxed and open environment for communication. Walking together or engaging in physical activities can reduce tension, promote empathy, and encourage a mo ...

Counterarguments

  • While walking together can help some individuals gain new perspectives, it may not be effective in all situations, especially where conflicts are deeply entrenched or involve significant power imbalances.
  • Physical movement as a conflict resolution strategy assumes that all parties are physically able to engage in such activities, which may not be inclusive of individuals with disabilities.
  • The idea of transcending predator-prey dynamics might oversimplify complex human behaviors and social structures that influence conflict.
  • Recognizing the inherent dignity of all parties is an ideal that may be difficult to achieve in practice, particularly in situations where there has been a history of abuse or deep-seated mistrust.
  • Envisioning relation ...

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Joy Harjo — Poems as Teachers | Ep 2

The role of the naturalentity- and future generations in conflict resolution

Ó Tuama and Joy Harjo explore how the natural world, its history, and the consideration for future generations play a critical role in conflict resolution.

The land itself is a witness and stakeholder in conflict

Ó Tuama and Harjo suggest that the land is not merely a backdrop for human events, but an active witness to history and a holder of memories.

The land holds the memory of past events

Harjo refers to the land as "a being who remembers everything," conveying the idea that the land is a living entity that carries the weight of historical events. She asserts that by acknowledging the land we stand on, we also acknowledge the history and memories it holds, which asserts its role in conflict resolution as a testament to past events.

Consideration of future generations compels accountability

Harjo also brings forth the consideration that individuals will have to "answer to your children and their children and theirs." This emphasizes the legacy of our actions and the impact on future generations. The compelling "red shimmer of remembering" invokes accountability, urging us to seek a deeper understanding and truth that honors what we leave behind for those who follow.

Interconnection with the broader web of life

Ó Tuama discusses the interconnectedness within ecosystems. Through Joy Harjo's work, we see an acknowledgment of non-human actors in the web of life and understand the importance of respecting their existence within the broader context of conflict resolution.

Awareness of non-human beings and their perspectives

In her work, Harjoy highlights the wisdom that can be derived from entities such as deer, turtle, and crane, marking th ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
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The role of the naturalentity- and future generations in conflict resolution

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The concept of the land as an active witness and holder of memories emphasizes the idea that the land itself retains the history of events that have occurred on it. This perspective suggests that the land, as a living entity, carries the collective memories and experiences of past occurrences, making it an integral part of understanding the context of conflicts and resolutions. The notion underscores the interconnected relationship between humans and the environment, highlighting how the land plays a role beyond being a passive backdrop to human activities. This perspective invites a deeper reflection on how acknowledging the land's significance can contribute to a more holistic approach to conflict resolution.
  • The concept of the land as a living entity suggests that the land is viewed as more than just a physical space; it is seen as having its own consciousness, spirit, or vitality. This perspective emphasizes a deep connection between humans and the natural world, recognizing the land as a dynamic and sentient being with its own history, memories, and agency. It underscores the idea that the land plays an active role in shaping human experiences and events, influencing how conflicts unfold and are resolved. This viewpoint encourages a holistic approach to understanding and interacting with the environment, promoting respect, reciprocity, and stewardship towards the land and all its inhabitants.
  • The "red shimmer of remembering" symbolizes a deep, emotional connection to the past and the responsibility individuals have towards future generations. It represents a vivid and poignant reminder of the impact of our actions on the legacy we leave behind. This phrase evokes a sense of accountability and the need to honor the memories and history embedded in the land. It urges individuals to reflect on their role in shaping a future that respects and acknowledges the interconnectedness of all beings.
  • Integrating non-human perspectives in conflict resolution involves considering the viewpoints and wisdom of entities like animals or nature itself when addressing disputes. By acknowledging the insights that non-human being ...

Counterarguments

  • The concept of land as a witness and stakeholder is metaphorical and may not be universally accepted, as it ascribes memory and agency to non-sentient entities, which is not supported by empirical evidence.
  • While acknowledging the history of the land is important, it may not always be practical or relevant to the specific details of a conflict resolution process.
  • The idea that the land carries the weight of historical events could be seen as a romanticized view that doesn't necessarily contribute to the tangible aspects of conflict resolution.
  • The notion of answering to future generations, while ethically compelling, can be abstract and difficult to operationalize in decision-making processes.
  • The impact of our actions on future generations, although important, can be unpredictable and thus difficult to accurately assess or use as a basis for current decisions.
  • The interconnectedness within ecosystems is complex, and human understanding of these connections is still limited, which can challenge the practical application of this principle in conflict resolution.
  • While non-human beings are part of the web of life, their perspectives are interpreted through human lenses, which can lead to anthropomorphism and may not accurately reflect non-human experiences or needs.
  • Wisdom derived from non-human entities is subject to human interpretation and may not be directly applicable to human conflicts.
  • Emphasizing the r ...

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