In this conversation, Henry Yampolsky, J.D., through his book (Dis-Solving Conflict from Within: an Inner Path for Conflict Transformation), shares his journey from being a refugee to becoming an advocate for conflict resolution and social justice. He discusses the nature of conflict, emphasizing that it is not merely an external issue but a reflection of our internal state. Yampolsky introduces the concept of 'dissolving conflict from within' and outlines principles for conflict transformation, including the importance of mindfulness, creating space for response, and understanding the triggers of conflict. Through personal stories and insights, he highlights the need for inner work to effect change in the world.
Henry Yampolsky is a mediator, educator, TEDx speaker, and lawyer who serves as the Assistant Director for Education, Outreach, and Conflict Resolution at Virginia Tech’s Office for Equity and Accessibility.
Takeaways
Sound Bites
· Conflict is not separate from us.
· All change begins from within us.
· Peace is ultimately space.
Chapters
00:00Henry Yampolsky's Background and Motivation
05:14Understanding Conflict as a Reflection of Our Internal State
06:35The Mistaken View of Conflict as a Competition of Narratives
08:00The Three Elements of Conflict: Story, Attachment, and Emotion
09:28Dissolving Conflict from Within: Going Beyond Solving
11:59Internal and External Conflicts: All Change Begins from Within
15:17Triggers of Conflict and the Importance of Tuning Inward
15:47The Story of Henry Yampolsky's Mother and the Injustice She Faced
24:08The Accumulation of Ideas and the Confusion Between 'Ours' and 'Us'
31:05The Four Principles of Conflict Transformation: Tuning Inward, Observation without Evaluation, Expansion, and Exploration
37:54The Importance of Creating Space and Responding with Strength and Compassion