In Article 10, Five Qualities of Practice in Support of Reconciliation Processes, John Paul Lederach
discusses the elements of reconciliation and how most of our knowledge about reconciliation is
conceptualized from various religious frameworks. John tells us that rather than qualities of practice
pointing us in the direction of a set technique, it points us more in the direction of attitude and
character. The core and/or center around which thing may spin is known as the pivotal. John states that
practice is likely to be a “long, hard inductive road of discovery.” John believes his five qualities of
practice in support of reconciliation help with complex and challenging process of seeking authentic
reconciliation.
The first quality mentioned by John Paul Lederach is Reconciliation as relationship-centric. John
suggests the first step to reconciliation being a reorientation toward the centrality of our relationships.
The defining quality of practice should be building trust, if reconciliation is truly relationship-centric. The
second quality mentioned is Reconciliations as accomplishment. John believes if we think more broadly
of our relationships that have experienced more division and separation, then the journey becomes
deep paradoxes. John uses the Old Testament story of Jacob and Esau to describe and discussing the
journey of reconciliation. In the story, reconciliation is described as both a destination and a journey. The
Reconciliation and Humility quality discusses the relations between reconciliation and humility. John
stresses that humility is bound up with Truth. He believes that humility is truth seeking and well engaged
within truth.
The biggest advantage of Article 10 is the discussion of journeys being taking only by the parties
involved in the reconciliation. John stresses that no one can reconcile for someone else nor can anyone
be obligated to reconcile. Often times in reconciliation a lot of “shoulds” are used; meaning a person
should do A or B. When reconciliation is built upon a “should” it is not true, authentic, or genuine. This
concept told out personally because it happens quite frequently. Reconciliation cannot be on anyone’s
terms but the individuals involved. Until reconciliation is the goal for all parties it will not be truly
accomplished. There were no disadvantages of the article found. The article was helping and put
reconciliation in perspective. For truly reconciliation, the individuals must genuinely want to resolve
conflict. It cannot be forced.
The Five Qualities of Practice in Support of Reconciliation Processes is directly related to conflict
management. John points that out when he stresses the importance of the individuals involved in the
conflict wanting to resolve the conflict and reconcile. These qualities give a step-by-step guide on how to
reach reconciliation. John concludes the article with inspiring words. In conflict management we should
focus on people and their experience. He advises us to seek a genuine and committed relationship rather
than looking for results only.
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