My Piece of the Puzzle

Recently, while feeling overwhelmed about how I can impact the world in a positive way, I was reminded of the words of Jane Goodall. She said, "I like to envision the whole world as a jigsaw puzzle… If you look at the whole picture, it is overwhelming and terrifying, but if you work on your little part of the jigsaw and know that people all over the world are working on their little bits, that’s what will give you hope." I remember at family gatherings, it was a tradition to put together a 1000- or 1500-piece puzzle over the course of our time together.

Opening the box and looking at the numerous pieces inside, it was hard to imagine them changing into the picture on the cover of the box. It was like a ritual--setting a card table, sorting out the outside edges and creating the frame. Slowly, the pieces were fitted together to create a flower, a building, or a bridge. My mom and my brother-in-law were among the most patient and consistent contributors. 

As I reflect on the lessons that I can draw from the words of Jane Goodall and my own experience with watching the puzzle unfold, I am struck by how these very elements are what we need to work on in our own niche of the world.

• All the pieces are connected and interlocked
• Each piece contributes to completing the whole
• Putting the puzzle together is the most enjoyable when it is done alongside and working collaboratively with others--it is a team effort
• It isn't easy to imagine what the outcome will look like from looking at the individual pieces. The picture on the box gives us the big picture
• It takes patience and perseverance

I am challenging myself--and I invite you as well--to find ways to work on your own section of the puzzle. Look for opportunities to create connections and conversations with your neighbor, co-worker, partner, parent, sibling, or child. 

Which puzzle pieces need your attention right now?

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