Public Health Intersection

At a recent meeting in New Orleans I had the opportunity to hear Dr. Robert Ross, the Executive Director of the California Endowment, speak.

It was a great presentation on the efforts of the California Endowment to sponsor real change in communities across California.

At the end of his talk he left us an observation/quote that went something like, “If you think you’re in a debate and the other party thinks they’re in a fight you’re going to get your ass kicked”.

As I and another gentleman of a more pacifist persuasion shared a cab to the airport, what Dr. Ross meant by that particular quote became the topic of conversation.

“Do you think it was a call to militancy?” my colleague wondered out loud.

”Could he mean make sure all the odds are on your side?” I asked.

The ride to the airport gave us about 20 minutes for our back and forth before my colleague headed to Atlanta and I to LA.

We really didn’t come to single conclusion but, as is often the case, had a chance to share our experiences and perspectives and try each other’s take on the quote on to see how it fit.

Reflecting on the quote further, I have the following observations;

• It is important to understand the other person’s perspective in any interaction. Do they want to fight, discuss or just hear themselves talk?
• It is important to be prepared for any interaction you are about to have. While it’s not always about gaining the upper hand, it is always about being prepared.
• I think the quote was also a call to get out of our comfort zone. Although it is, hopefully, unlikely that you will be physically attacked in any interaction, it is also true that the same old business as usual answers will not always suffice.
• If there is fighting involved, I believe it is more about standing up for your principles and beliefs. Words have power and people need to know where you stand and what you believe so they don’t think you believe it’s OK to be racist, demeaning, inappropriate or unfair because you are silent and let them continue to promote such beliefs.

I believe the quote suggests the opportunity, whether intended or not, to rise above the apparent conflict it suggests and pursue options that address both party’s concerns, if you’re prepared to do so.

Rather than a suggestion to put on, or take off the gloves, (depending upon which analogy you prefer), I take it as a challenge to always be prepared to hear and see what is actually going on and try to address that in a respectful and productive way.