Steamer Trunk, Murse or Coin Purse?

How many assumptions are we carrying with us each day - would they fit into a steamer trunk, a murse or a coin purse?

Keb' 'Mo is a great storyteller. His song, Suitcase, is playing in the background as I write - it fits. "I got a suitcase I take it everywhere I go"...

What size suitcase does it take to carry the ideas, habits, patterns, assumptions, beliefs that keep us from experiencing life with an open mind?

What would happen if we checked our bag(s) for an hour, for a conversation, for a meeting, for a discussion or in the midst of a disagreement?

Are we schlepping more than one bag? Do we need a luggage cart?

Approaching new (or repetitive) situations with an open mind is a frequent challenge personally and professionally.  Would it help leaders to be present, to actively listen if the bag(s) of preconceived ideas didn't go into the room with them? 

Back to Keb' for a moment:

"Well the house got too small

And the bags got too big

We were holding on to everything

We ever said or did..."

Perhaps we can use this image this week.  First, we can literally assess the heft we are carrying.  Then, we can opt to put the bags (or a bag) on the floor outside the door and experience a meeting or discussion with wonder and learning.  It could free up our thinking.

At least there would be a little more leg room...