It is so very important to honour people. We find in our life and in our work that as we consult with others and genuinely value their participation in decision-making, it not only strengthens the relationship we share but also enhances and improves what we are doing together. The ability to see and believe in the role, gifts, experience, heart and potential of others is very important to us. We believe it is good to let each other be who we are and to seek the best for one another.
In and through our connections with people; kindness, gentleness, respect, honour and joy can be carried and imparted. Even something as simple as a smile may do. We have developed an approach to working with others that is based on mutual respect and care for others. Working cross-culturally, we can so easily slip into the trap by communicating to others that we feel that their belief system is wrong or that their lifestyle is wrong. We hope to encourage cross-cultural understanding and appreciation wherever we are and to be teachable; eager and ready to learn from those of different race, religion and life experience.
We believe that love, acceptance and forgiveness in relationship opens the way for a foundation of trust to be laid and built upon. It radically changes people and situations, and can mend broken lives and families and bring security and real happiness.
In working with others in their communities or families it is essential that the people we are seeking to serve own the project or programme for themselves. In order to achieve that sense of ownership it is important to include them in any process or decision making from the very outset. A good process will give everyone involved in the partnership space to grow, learn and develop; not only wisdom and skills but ownership.