{"id":40814,"date":"2025-02-24T13:55:08","date_gmt":"2025-02-24T21:55:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.georgefox.edu\/dlgp\/?p=40814"},"modified":"2025-02-24T13:55:08","modified_gmt":"2025-02-24T21:55:08","slug":"the-impossible-isnt-a-problem","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.georgefox.edu\/dlgp\/the-impossible-isnt-a-problem\/","title":{"rendered":"The Impossible isn\u2019t a problem."},"content":{"rendered":"

\u201cExploring Wicke\"\"<\/a>d Problems\u201d<\/em> [1]<\/a> <\/span>\u00a0by Bentley and Toth offers a brilliant, albeit lengthy, exploration of the distinction between \u201cwicked and tame\u201d [2]<\/a> problems. Many leaders are likely acquainted with this concept, which is difficult to dispute at its core. The authors highlight that while some problems are clear-cut and easily addressed, others are intrinsically complex, messy, and unpredictable. [3]<\/a><\/p>\n

As an underpinning thought to the book and blog, I have always loved Theodore Rubin\u2019s quote about the impossible. I often paraphrased it when speaking to pastors and leaders. \u201cThe impossible isn’t a problem. The problem is not that there are problems. The problem is expecting otherwise & thinking that having problems is a problem.<\/em> A problem is merely an environment where the impossible is done.\u201d [4]<\/a> (Italicised is Rubin\u2019s direct quote). Reworking Rubin\u2019s famous idea has enabled me to leverage the possibilities that abound within problems rather than allowing their frustrations to rule and ruin life and ministry. I must admit, however, that I did not like Bentley and Toth\u2019s statement, \u201cYou\u2019ll always have eighty-three problems.\u201d[5]<\/a> (More later).<\/p>\n

Before addressing the verbosity of the book, there were some aha moments worthy of consideration on the leadership journey, many of which find support in the teaching of the Bible.<\/p>\n

First, the authors argue that wicked problems cannot be definitively solved but only managed through temporary arrangements. [6]<\/a> This reality aligns with the biblical truth that human challenges are often ongoing and require continuous wisdom and discernment. Ecclesiastes 1:9 says “What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun,” emphasising the cyclical nature of challenges. A discerning leader may recognise this early in the book, skipping to practical discussions of taming problems and messes in Chapters 13 and 20. While the content between these chapters may feel unnecessary, it is accessible and engaging, with anecdotal storytelling suitable for casual readers. Proverbs 18:15 states, “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out,” encouraging leaders to glean valuable insights wherever they are found. The summaries of wicked problems on pages 24, 27, 53, 87, 88, 92, and 113 build progressively, offering readers a deeper understanding of the nature of such issues. Focusing on the later chapters offers practical wisdom for the leader seeking actionable steps, while the earlier sections provide a broader philosophical grounding. Both elements have their place, though not all may feel equally essential to every reader.<\/p>\n

Secondly, the practical steps for characterising and taming problems and messes, Bentley and Toth, offer valuable relational insights, particularly when navigating issues of right and wrong. They draw upon the 13th-century poet Rumi\u2019s words: \u201cOut beyond the ideas of right and wrong, there is a garden. I\u2019ll meet you there.\u201d [7]<\/a> This perspective aligns with biblical principles that prioritise reconciliation and harmony. Romans 12:18 says, \u201cIf it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.\u201d \u00a0Pastoral courses like the Alpha Marriage Course[8]<\/a> similarly teach the importance of depersonalising issues to address root causes, fostering relational healing and forward movement, reflecting Proverbs 15:1, \u201cA gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.\u201d Bentley and Toth\u2019s inclusion of Rumi\u2019s perspective underscores the need to preserve the value of relationships, avoiding the creation of enemies even in the face of ideological or identity conflicts. The author\u2019s work provides a framework for addressing problems without diminishing the significance of relationships, fostering mutual understanding and reconciliation in an era of division.<\/p>\n

Further, the author\u2019s encouragement to FIO[9]<\/a> \u00a0or Figure it out is refreshing in terms of defining mess. Rather than just acknowledge that problems exist, they exist within the scope of Rubin\u2019s realm of possibility. Messes and problems exist not to frustrate but to create a desire to FIO, even if it is a wicked problem and can only be effectively managed until the next generation takes the lead.[10]<\/a> Especially helpful in the context of FIO is the author\u2019s inclusion of the acronym PERMA.[11]<\/a> The PERMA model aligns with Scripture as a gold standard for flourishing:<\/p>\n