"Knowing is not enough; we must apply.
Willing is not enough; we must
do." - Goethe
The quote by Goethe was given to us participants at the DASA’s
Cultural Competency Training. This is a very old quote, by the way.
Knowing is not really enough. We must apply. We see this daily as
we teach our patients about lifestyle changes, recovery, and working a
program. We sense it in ourselves if we are trying to work through our
own issues as well. By the way, all human beings have issues from time
to time. This goes with learning and knowing about other cultures then
applying what we learn.
The second part of the quote: Willing is not enough; we must do.
All of us can learn and be willing, but until we apply and do, changes
cannot truly occur. We must apply by demonstrating our respect,
appreciation, and/or concern for each other cultures, languages,
lifestyle changes, and recovery processes.
The six trainers were excellent. They represented many cultures and
lifestyle differences. They talked about the importance of our
treatment programs, businesses, employers, and individuals, in
general, being aware of these differences and work toward a respectful
environment.
The Board of Directors and I certainly want this organization to
follow this quote with kindness, concern, and respect toward all
cultures and lifestyle differences whether in our patients, staff,
families, or communities.
