The other day I was asked how I would handle something in the “secular” workplace. You see I work in religious institution and I guess because it is a religious college there is an assumption that the work of work and the functions related to work are different based on two different approaches to work and work outcomes.
Well the truth is, there is really no difference. Work is work and the base for that work has nothing to do with whether it is secular or connected to some religious denomination. To assume that because it is a religious company that needs to be honest or have a high degree of integrity or strength of character is simply a false assumption. Influencing the minds of others to believe in what you are doing has nothing to do with the format or constructs of a company, school or entity. I am not sure that any organization, religious or secular has the corner on what is right or wrong. To suggest otherwise would be arrogant and pointless based on the diversity of views expressed by many others who might feel or perceive life differently.
Through grace, kindness and a willingness to accept people for what they are seems like an OK thing to do. If we looked at how we provide service to others and tried not to be too judgmental, maybe we would not have to concern ourselves with what is more correct, right or wrong. I have worked in both the secular and religious organizations for over 20 years. Each has good and bad in both organizations. Neither organizational type can lay claim to what is absolutely right or wrong although both sides will tell you they have all the answers. Both are incorrect when they have this level of response to the needs of others or the outcomes of the organization.
I am fairly sure that while we continue to develop a great deal of separateness between our worlds, we continue to be a lot closer than we think. It is way past time for thinking with some degree of clarity about who may be right or wrong. Let’s start thinking about building relationships and not try to second guess our process, needs or motivations….It may even be a better world all the way around.
Dr. Jim Jones
Jim received his Ph.D. from the University of Illinois in Human Resource Development and has over 40 years of management experience in 5 different industries. He has consulted for Raytheon, Century 21 and Motorola. He retired in 2005 as the Sr. VP, Human Resources for Trident Health System (an HCA facility). His specialty is talent-based organizational development. Jim has recently accepted a position with Shorter University as the Associate Vice President for Online and Professional Education. Shorter University's primary campus is located in Rome, Georgia. His role will include the strategic management of online programs for the university to include the College of Adult and Professional Programs located in Rome and Atlanta. Dr. Jones is looking forward to helping change the lives of those he touches every day in the pursuit of excellence in adult education. This includes students, faculty and staff.