Our Indigenous teachings awaken us to that moment when we point a finger in blame, forgetting the three fingers quietly pointing back at us. These returning fingers remind us that our own actions, our own impact, often mirror three times more of what we perceive in others.
Written By: Ethelbert Harrison
I want to invite you on a journey, a gentle exploration into a concept that has profoundly shaped my understanding of the world, particularly during my uphill journey through my initiation into M’TAM. Have you ever considered the words we use, how they carry weight and history? Take the word "development," for instance. When you hear it, what comes to mind?
We often encounter the idea of "Builders versus Destroyers." It’s a powerful framing, isn’t it? It invites us to see ourselves as either part of the problem or part of the solution. Our Indigenous teachings awaken us to that moment when we point a finger in blame, forgetting the three fingers quietly pointing back at us. These returning fingers remind us that our own actions, our own impact, often mirror three times more of what we perceive in others.
Many of us see ourselves as developers, perhaps not realizing the inherent meaning woven into the very fabric of the word. The prefix “De” whispers of destruction, of deconstruction, of a force that can be detrimental to both humanity and nature. It’s a powerful insight, isn't it? To truly understand this concept, let’s gently unpack it, moving from instruction to a shared exploration.
Builders, we can see, are those who focus on producing, on generating, on improving, and uplifting. Their actions are about offering support, fostering growth, and contributing positively, whether it's to a community, a relationship, or the natural world. Their essence is one of optimism, constructiveness, and a deep-seated desire to find solutions.
Destroyers, on the other hand, tend to tear down, to criticize, to undermine. Their actions can involve demolishing, sabotaging, spreading negativity, and hindering progress. Their characteristics often reveal a pessimism, a divisiveness, and a resistance to positive change.
Think about our workplaces. A builder might be the colleague who consistently seeks to improve processes, bringing a fresh perspective. The destroyer might be the one who is quick to complain, subtly undermining team efforts. In our communities, a builder might be the one who organizes a cleanup day, bringing people together. A destroyer could be someone who thrives on gossip, spreading negativity, and discord. Even in our relationships, a builder offers support and encouragement, while a destroyer might resort to constant criticism.
Recognizing this difference is crucial for our own evolution, for our collective journey. It begins with self-awareness, with a quiet reflection on our own actions. At some point in our lives, haven’t we all, in some way, been a little bit destructive? Understanding the impact of both building and destroying behaviors is vital for creating environments where positivity and progress can truly flourish. As we
embrace building behaviors and gently address destructive ones, we pave the way for outcomes that are more positive and productive for all of humanity and nature.
My initiation into M’TAM revealed a deeper truth about development – that true development isn't about tearing down, but about understanding the roots, honoring the past, and building with intention and respect for all that sustains us. It’s about recognizing that we are all connected, and our actions ripple outwards.
What are your thoughts on this journey of building and destroying? How do you see these dynamics playing out in your own life?
