Human situations, interactions, are complex and multilayered and far more complex than may meet the eye.

Churning beneath the surface, lingering in the atmosphere, are unfinished generational issues and immediate pressing challenges. Problems, experiences, anti-social proclivities, joys, conflicts, desire for kindness, ethical dilemmas, addictive leanings, attractions, old and new prejudices, percolate within and linger among. 

Very little of human behavior can be explained by “cause and effect.”

It’s not that simple.

“Johnny doesn’t want to go to school. What’s ‘wrong’ with Johnny? What’s ‘wrong’ with the teacher? What’s ‘wrong’ with the school?” This statement and the logical questions reflect linear thinking.  

Johnny may want to stay home from school to protect mom from dad or dad from mom – without even knowing it. Johnny may prefer to stay home because he detects peer rejection. Johnny may be unaware of the source of his anxiety and may be one of several family members who had similar feelings about school generations before Johnny was conceived.

Our behavior is at least as complex as fictional Johnny’s behavior. 

Appreciating the multiple levels underlying complex human behaviors takes empathy, patience and kindness. 

It takes willingness to looking inward.