Truth or Dare?

Truth or Dare?

In the August 3rd, 2009 issue of Time, on page 21, Natalya Estemirova's murder is reported. She valiantly fought for human rights, in the end giving her own life, so that others may live.

The write-up goes on to state "She was fearless...boldly defended the truth...Those who witness abuse keep silent, for if they speak, they can soon be victims...By silencing this woman who spoke, her killers have victimized everyone".

Very sad news indeed. YET...

Unfortunately, situation in many of our organizations is not that different. As I read her write-up, I was reminded of a recent book by Mr. Rodney Johnson "Without Warning". If you haven't read it, I encourage you to order it right now.

Mr. Johnson states that "silent problems" are so embedded, touchy, uncomfortable, or seemingly beyond help, they go undetected or simply get ignored. But, left to their own devices, their impact will be felt--it's just a matter of time, and often when we least expect it.

If you have been in organizations for any length of time, you know what I am referring to...the sacred cows...keeping hush out of fear...don't want to be the one to rock the boat...

While Mr. Johnson provides powerful insights, I continue to wonder if these silent problems that he refers to could also be major contributors to many of our long standing structures, which at one time appeared so solid, coming crashing down-causing havoc on our economies on a global scale, the worst depression since the Great Depression? Perhaps one day we'll refer to this depression as the Silent Depression, one that snuck up on us "without warning".

If you agree, why do you suppose these problems continue to remain silent, knowing fully well the havoc they can and do cause? And more importantly what do you feel are the solutions?