Have you ever done that group exercise where everyone gets tied up in knots? The group circles up with everyone reaching across to two different people to grab right and left hands in theirs. From then on it is up to the group to figure out a way to untangle the mass of bodies and arms and recreate a circle without letting go of anyone’s hand. It usually works best with groups under ten people. More than twelve usually proves too difficult; less than eight is too easy.

After much laughter and hard work, the group might solve the problem and untangle themselves. Sometimes it’s necessary for a person outside the group to coordinate and coach individuals and smaller groups within the larger group toward a solution.

In the life cycle of any team, there are times when members get tied up in knots. Disagreements occur, personalities clash, and feelings get hurt. Getting things untangled calls for patience, ingenuity, and a sense of humor. Sometimes an outside mediator or peacemaker needs to be called in to help solve the tangled mess. In any case, there is an art to peacemaking and finding creative solutions.

Achieving peace is not always easy, in fact, it’s often very difficult. But the hard work and energy invested in sorting out human relationships, conflicts, and misunderstandings are certainly worth the effort! Every Wednesday post over the next few months, I will be looking at the art of peacemaking. I welcome your feedback and input along the way.