Fire as a metaphor for conflict.....

Fire is one of those things that people tend to consider is a bad thing – at least, that is how it is generally framed in the media these days. Nevertheless, fire through the ages has been a useful tool, one that societies and individuals valued for the contribution to their life. At times, fire has warmed those around it, has given a heat source to cook on, a source of light in the dark, has been used to refine precious metals, has assisted to cleanse an area, and so far as the Australian bush is concerned, has permitted the indigenous people to regenerate healthy grasslands and many Australian species for many many years. A mere 200 years ago, Australians moved through the bush lighting fires in strategic areas and at strategic times. We were not afraid of fire  - it was a tool to be used skilfully for specific purposes.

At some point, our attitude to fire as a community shifted from a tool to be used with care and skill, to something to be feared. Something for which we issue warnings, and watch in horror at the destruction and devastation it causes when we are unable to control it.

So whilst the prevailing approach communicated publicly is that fire is bad, fire can be a good thing in the right context and the right hands – and was for most of history.

As far as metaphor’s go, fire as a metaphor for conflict has a lot going for it. Both fire and conflict have a great deal in common, and both have both good and bad aspects. For example, conflict managed well in the hands of those skilled at managing it can assist to clear the trash away, leaving a basis for a regenerated and healthy space between individuals. It allows seeds and new growth to sprout. It permits clearing the weeds from the ground, preparing the soil for new understanding to germinate, and potential for new growth. Perhaps a focus on what is important. Alternatively, left unchecked and unmanaged, conflict can run rampant, involving more and more people around the conflict, and increasing the heat and destruction as it moves fast, destroying everything in its path – people, relationships, perhaps even careers. Is it time to drip some water on the conflictual fire that is burning for you? Mediation can do just that!