“Creative Dislocation” May 12, 2014
“Creative Dislocation moves people into settings, relationships and dynamics intentionally different from the norm in order to enhance the potential for transformation. The unfamiliar heightens our senses and attention because it is intriguing, less predictable and, in some ways, more challenging. Our emotions get engaged as well, enabling us to better remember our experience. Growth from that experience can last long into the future.
Creative Dislocation offers an unparalleled avenue for Christian transformation through a dynamic focus on God and actively following Christ’s lead. Such experiences, when reflected upon and incorporated into our thoughts and actions, can give deeper meaning to our lives from that point forward. Scripture is rich with examples like the Exodus, Jacob wrestling with the angel, Ruth traveling with Naomi, etc. Jesus deliberately invited persons to leave their daily circumstances to follow him on a journey different from what they had known before. It becomes an incredible way to spark a growing relationship with God and involvement in the transformation of the world.
In the words of a cherished spiritual mentor, there is a “change of place, a change of pace, and a change of face (the roles and expectations of one’s routines).” As we cross from one environment into another, the potential for fresh possibilities increases. Disorientation, when done creatively and lovingly, can provide the stimulus for new awareness, new priorities, and new ways of being in the world. In other words, dis-orientation can expose us to an alternative orientation when we are most alert, which quite often leads to the re-orientation of important dimensions of our lives.”
(Excerpted from article “Creative Dislocation” by Kevin Witt, General Board of Discipleship of The United Methodist Church in Nashville, TN.)
Entry into a structured recovery program like Titus 2 Partnership can be the “Creative Dislocation” needed for one to have her attention fully focused so that she can evaluate her life and future. If you know a woman who would benefit from experiencing a “creative dislocation” to address her addictive behavior, review our program components and application.