Connections bring us together with other people, introducing us to new ideas and different ways of doing things. Although this is crucial for learning and growth, there is also the possibility that it will create too great a dissonance, causing us to draw back and resist. We often believe that everyone thinks like us or at least in a similar way. However, as we connect with a greater number of people, we are brought in to contact with a wide variety of ideas and worldviews. If we don’t step out beyond just connecting, the possibilities for learning and growth are greatly diminished. However, if we share our experiences and what we see in the world around us and are open to others sharing their experiences and what they see, we open up the possibility for growth and learning.

Each person is a unique individual who has something to add to our experience. Ask questions, listen intently, engage in conversation. In a world that is filled with the possibility for personalization, building connections and sharing with others requires us to shift from "Do unto others" to "Get to know and treat them as unique persons". We need to respect their dignity by accepting that there may be differences in how we might see things which requires a more personalized approach to connecting. As our connections grow and develop, people who treat those around them as unique, worthy of knowing, provide the opportunity for a personal connection built on sharing and learning. Applying one-size fits all formats to connections leaves us missing the opportunity to learn and grow.

How willing are you to personalize your approach to the connections you make? How much time do you take to ‘listen’ to what people are sharing with you in order to get to know them? When you meet with parents or other community members, how often do you provide them with the opportunity to tell you about themselves? When you are connecting with others, how focused are you on their experience?

Connections - explore personal uniqueness.

Every day is a PD day.