We all love sunsets. We love the vivid colors, the enchanting beauty, and often for a moment the way they make our lives feel a little bit better. They remind us that there is beauty and hope in the world. And the richness of the sunset lasts a while after the sun has actually set because of the afterglow. Most photographers believe this is the best time to take photos because of the rich lighting, even though the sun has already set. Thus it is a beautiful side-effect to the already wonderful vision of a setting sun. Mediation also has an afterglow.
Through the mediation process, people go through the hard work of taking on a conflict and confronting it directly. Parties affected share their story of how the conflict has impacted them and they are recognized by the other party. There is time for healing and repair of the relationship. The possibility of forgiveness is explored as well as plans that bring hope for the future. When the participants want to resolve the issue and are willing to follow the process, there is usually a very positive outcome. We, as mediators, get to celebrate with people on the restoration of a relationship and their renewed commitment to a better future relationship. We often leave a mediation session with great passion and are reminded there is beauty and hope in the world.
Similar to a sunset, an afterglow follows. Unmanaged conflict tends to spill into other areas of our life. People in conflict share that although their spouse is not directly involved they are also upset by the situation. When we are upset with someone at work, our spouse and children are usually affected. The same equation applies in other scenarios. While we try to categorize our lives, it becomes hard to separate the hurt and frustration we experience in one part of life from the rest. Conversely, when we resolve that conflict, there is a positive element that is experienced throughout our life. When people are reconciled, and the messages of apology and reparation are conveyed to everyone else impacted, they also experience peace.
These are some of the many beneficial outcomes of mediation:
- They have a renewed relationship.
- Their relationship is stronger than it ever was.
- Each person’s stress level is greatly diminished.
- Peace replaces fear and hurt.
- Forgiveness is often experienced.
- Families are able to focus on enjoying each other rather than talking about the ongoing conflict.
- Those who resolved their conflict are more pleasant to be around.
- You start assuming better intentions of people you encounter.
If you or someone you know are experiencing conflict and would like to experience the positive impact of mediation, call us or email us 559.797.9361 or click here.
Noelle Nightingale is a mediator, facilitator, and conflict resolution trainer in Fresno, CA. She has over 10 years of experience in the field of Mediation and Conflict Resolution.