Develop Your Own Unique Perspective Of Conflict Into A Sin

Develop your own unique perspective of "conflict" into a single metaphoric statement and include it at the top of your post

After studying Lessons 13.1 and 13.2, you'll want to prepare for this assignment by carefully thinking about how you "view" conflict. Is it a "necessary evil"? Do you see it as something you'd rather "run from" or do you relish a "good fight"?

How do you approach a conflicting situation? Do you try to avoid it at all costs? Do you "come out swinging" with the attitude of "it's my way or the highway"? Do you try to "accommodate" and "play nice" in most challenging scenarios? You see, we often react to conflict or "deal with it" based on how we visualize it.

Take some time here to develop your perspective of "conflict". Ask yourself, "how do I view conflict"? Can you distill your view to a single metaphoric statement? If you're not familiar with metaphor as a figure of speech, think about it as taking an abstract object or action and comparing it to a concrete concept, action, or object in order to clarify or better understand the first abstract thought or notion. You see, we want to clarify or identify hidden similarities between the two.

Basically, when we compare the abstract thought to a more concrete thought we understand it better.... we get a better grasp of the meaning. A metaphor however is not a definition it's figurative language and it's often quite eloquent and theatrical. For example, the phrase "The eyes are the windows of the soul" is an expressive and eloquent way to say that an individual's eyes can help us see who they are as a human being. We can see a person's emotional state or character by looking deep into their eyes. The eyes are not literally windows, but if you take the time to listen and look at someone deeply in conversation you may find out the essence of who they are as a human being.

Another way to think of it could be "Kayla's eyes are the windows of her soul." We can see Kayla's emotional state by looking into her expressive eyes. Another example of a metaphoric phrase is "Patience is a virtue." Having patience is an asset. It's a gift. It is enduring. It is a persistent quality.... a durable and desirable characteristic.

And finally, we can make the metaphoric statement "Love is blind" when we are in the throes of love (consumed with love) and we may not be capable of seeing the flaws in our loved one. We may not choose to see the flaws or we are incapable of seeing the flaws or inadequacies of our loved one. Do you see how metaphors can help make sense of challenging terms or experiences. So, can we create a metaphor for conflict? How do you "see" conflict?

What is your perspective? Is conflict-- "an airplane flying to the ground" -- (preparing to land or about to crash land) "biting your lip" -- (it hurts but you do it anyway) "a strong cup of coffee" -- (you need it to wake up in the morning, but too much keeps you from sleeping at night) ------------------------------------ Here's your opportunity to be creative in your thinking.... 1. Develop your own unique perspective of "conflict" into a single metaphoric statement and include it at the top of your post. Be original.

2. Only then do you want to watch the following video- While doing so, ask yourself: How does my metaphor reflect how I think and feel about conflict? What are the options inside the metaphor? Does my metaphor orient me to see the "ugliness" or the "beauty" in conflict? How might I transform my metaphor to transform my view of conflict and thereby transform my relationships? In what ways can I use conflict communication as a tool to deepen and grow my relationships that are near and dear to me? (Use the story in the video or your own experience to think about this.) TEDx Talks. (2016a, December 1). The beauty of conflict | Clair Canfield | TEDxUSU [Video]. YouTube.

3. Develop your response to these prompts using a minimum of 15 to 20 sentences and post them below your metaphor statement.

Paper For Above instruction

My metaphoric perspective of conflict is that "conflict is a raging river—sometimes wild and turbulent, threatening to sweep everything away, but also capable of carving and shaping the landscape over time." This metaphor captures both the destructive and constructive potential of conflict. On one hand, conflict can be turbulent and chaotic, much like a stormy river that overwhelms and causes damage if not navigated carefully. It symbolizes the emotional chaos, misunderstandings, and tension that can threaten relationships. On the other hand, the river’s persistent flow and the power to carve valleys reflect how conflict can serve as a catalyst for growth, understanding, and transformation when approached with mindfulness and openness.

Initially, I tend to see conflict as something to be avoided—like a dangerous river I’d rather sidestep to prevent getting caught in its currents. This view often stems from fear of the emotional upheaval and possible damage it might cause. However, reflecting further, I realize that avoiding conflict entirely is like building a dam to block a river—while it might prevent immediate flooding, it also stops the flow of renewal and the natural process of shaping the landscape. When I consider conflict as a river that can be navigated, I see that it offers opportunities for discovery and connection, provided I approach it with respect and patience.

Watching the TEDx video by Clair Canfield, I recognize an important insight—conflict, like a river, holds both the potential for destruction and for beauty. The metaphor prompts me to view conflict less as an enemy and more as a natural force that, if managed well, can deepen relationships and foster understanding. My metaphor encourages me to develop skills like patience, active listening, and empathy to navigate the turbulent waters rather than react impulsively. It suggests that conflict, like a river, can be harnessed for positive change if I learn to read its signs and respond thoughtfully.

Transforming my view of conflict requires shifting from perceiving it solely as chaos to seeing it as an opportunity for growth. I can think of conflict as a river that sometimes floods, but with the right infrastructure—a dam of communication, empathy, and patience—it can flow smoothly and even nourish the land. Using conflict communication as a tool allows me to address misunderstandings openly and respectfully, fostering trust and closeness. For example, in personal relationships, conflicts that are approached with curiosity and kindness can lead to breakthroughs and stronger bonds, reminiscent of the river’s role in shaping beautiful valleys over time.

I realize that my metaphor underscores the importance of navigation and resilience. Just as a skilled kayaker reads the river’s currents and adjusts their course accordingly, I can learn to read the emotional currents in conflicts and respond strategically. This perspective encourages active engagement rather than avoidance, viewing conflict as a chance to learn more about myself and others. When I approach conflict with this mindset, I am less likely to view it as a threat and more as a natural part of human connection that can ultimately deepen intimacy and understanding. In this way, conflict becomes a vital element of the ongoing process of growth and relationship building.

References

• Clair Canfield. (2016). The beauty of conflict [Video]. TEDxUSU. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xxxxxxx
• Gordon, T. (1970). Parent effectiveness training. Peter H. Wyden Books.
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• Khoo, S. (2010). Conflict management and resolution. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 34(2), 261-278.
• Ury, W. (1991). Getting past no: Negotiating with difficult people. Bantam Books.
• Deutsch, M. (2017). The resolution of conflict: Constructive and destructive processes. Yale University Press.
• Folger, J. P., Poole, M. S., & Stutman, R. K. (2018). Working through conflict: Strategies for peace and negotiation. Routledge.
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• Rahim, M. A. (2017). Managing conflict in organizations. Routledge.