Fire as a Metaphor for Conflict

The image and concept of fire presents a useful frame in which to view conflict. Initially fire presents an obvious representation of conflict’s undesirable side: frustration, war, annoyance, fight, pain, difficulty, fear, heat, and loss. At the very least, through the process of exploring our immediate associations with conflict, we discover that we have all experienced conflict in our lives and that it is inevitable, just like fire. However, if we explore the metaphor further, we find that like conflict, fire has the potential for destruction but also for opportunity.

The most crucial aspect of dealing with conflict, and with fire, is one's attitude. If we see conflict as something bad, when it surfaces we run or fight. When we allow the view of conflict as inevitable with the potential for destruction and growth, then we discover that we have choices.

We learn about the dynamics of fire and what is needed to sustain and extinguish a fire. Some fires benefit from water (electrical) while others die when doused with water. Sometimes smothering a fire is advisable. At other times, an exterior substance must be applied, such as spraying with chemicals. As we discover the dynamics of conflict we also discover the different ways that we can engage in conflict. Sometimes we need a decision made that will provide direction for the community. At other times, allowing disputants with long standing relationships to work things out on their own is important. Moreover, at other times an immediate response is necessary.

In forests where fire is left to occur naturally it keeps the forest floor free of materials that cause destructive forest fires. When we overprotect our forests and prevent fire from doing its job, our forests burn to the ground. In addition, burning leaves behind the ability for new growth to occur unhindered by tangled undergrowth. It has been said that the hottest fire makes the strongest steel. In the same way, a healthy experience of conflict can be the means by which unhealthy factors in a relationship or project can be removed. Then new and stronger ideas and characteristics can emerge.

Uncontrolled fire is undesirable fire that benefits no one and endangers everyone. Uncontrolled conflict is undesirable conflict that benefits no one and damages everyone involved. As with using controlled fire as a tool, great care must be exercised to control conflict. Emotions must be held under strict control and the interaction must not become personal. Like fire, the conflict must remain focused on the proper object (the situation needing change) and not the people involved in the change process. Burning underbrush is desirable; burning the person using the fire is not. By knowing how to extinguish the fire, and the conflict, and by building strict barriers to guide the fire, and the conflict, the greatest benefit can be achieved by both.

Developing the ability to deal with conflict is crucial. If one's attitude allows for the possibility of constructive conflict, then the prospect of conflict can be anticipated and not loathed. We must remember that conflict is similar to fire. It is inevitable but possesses the potential for positive and negative results. Only you can prevent (uncontrolled) forest fires!