When I read this recent article, “Alive and Whole in a World of Hurt: The Below and Beyond of Well-Being,” it made me think of Bridges Out of Poverty communities. I encourage you to read the full article.
In the article, the three authors explain that sustaining change amid constant crises requires more than well-being. True perseverance comes from three intertwined dynamics that they outline: resilience to bounce back, resistance to push back, and accompaniment to have each other’s backs. Together, they create the wholeness needed for long-term vitality in a world of hurt.
In expressing bounce back, push back, and having each other’s backs, they use the dandelion as a metaphor. This is where Bridges Out of Poverty communities came to mind.
The first element is “bounce back / resilience.” When a Bridges community implements the Bridges model as designed, then there is a greater chance of having deeper roots. These roots sustain a community during the constant tyranny of the moment, budget issues, personnel transitions, and more. It allows more voices, all using the same language, to speak to the systemic approach of addressing poverty. It reduces burnout and fatigue of employees.
The second element is “push back / resistance.” Just like the dandelion is constantly sending off seeds that continue to grow additional dandelions, so does the Bridges initiative. When we are working across the community with all sectors, we continue to plant and grow the initiative, involving more community members. This planting and growing shifts policies, procedures, and community sustainability. We find that Bridges communities have more stability than other communities.
The last element is “having our backs.” The fact that we have accompaniment on this marathon to address poverty is attractive when running the course. As an organization, we don’t have to carry the load alone. When we address poverty as a community, not in silos, we again have support, like-minded goals, a shared language, continued growth during transitions, and more. We go further and faster.
Enjoy the referenced article, and think about how your Bridges community can bounce back, push back, and have each other’s backs as you work toward economic stability in your community.
Learn more about Bridges Out of Poverty at www.ahaprocess.com.
