We are a party of innovation. We do not reject our traditions

Host: The room feels still, the evening light casting a warm glow across the space. The conversation about to unfold feels like it’s rooted in something deeper, an understanding about balance, adaptability, and the tension between honoring the past and embracing the future. Jack and Jeeny sit across from each other, ready to dive into the meaning behind Barbara Jordan’s words.

Jack: “Barbara Jordan said, ‘We are a party of innovation. We do not reject our traditions, but we are willing to adapt to changing circumstances, when change we must. We are willing to suffer the discomfort of change in order to achieve a better future.’” He repeats the words slowly, almost letting them linger. “It’s an interesting perspective, isn’t it? The idea that innovation doesn’t mean abandoning tradition, but finding a way to evolve it, to adapt to the circumstances around us. Change is uncomfortable, but it’s necessary for progress.” He looks at Jeeny, thoughtful. “What do you think? Is it really possible to innovate while still holding on to what’s worked in the past?”

Jeeny: “I think it’s essential. Innovation doesn’t have to mean throwing out everything that’s come before us. It’s about recognizing the value in tradition and using that as a foundation to build something new. But to do that, we have to be willing to step outside of what we know, to embrace change even when it’s difficult.” Her voice is steady, filled with a quiet strength. “What Barbara Jordan is saying is that progress isn’t always easy. Sometimes, we have to face discomfort, we have to challenge what we’re used to, but it’s that very discomfort that leads to growth.”

Jack: “But isn’t it hard? To be willing to face that discomfort, to let go of things we’ve held onto for so long?” His tone softens, a hint of hesitation in his voice. “We all talk about progress, but when it’s time to change, to step into the unknown, it can feel overwhelming. How do we find the courage to move forward, especially when what we’re leaving behind feels familiar and safe?”

Jeeny: “That’s the challenge, isn’t it? The fear of the unknown, of what we might lose in the process. But I think the key is understanding that the discomfort of change is temporary. It’s the price we pay for a better future, for a more meaningful, more evolved version of ourselves or of society. We have to trust that the discomfort is worth the reward.” She smiles softly, almost as if she’s speaking from experience. “Change isn’t easy, but it’s how we grow, how we make room for something better, something that reflects where we are now and where we want to go.”

Jack: “So, it’s not about rejecting the past, but about knowing when it’s time to adapt, to evolve, to move beyond what we’ve always known.” His voice grows more reflective, as if the realization is beginning to settle in. “In that sense, innovation isn’t just about coming up with something new. It’s about recognizing when things need to change, and having the courage to take the first step.”

Jeeny: “Exactly. Innovation is about progress, but progress isn’t always linear. Sometimes, it requires us to step back and reimagine what’s possible. It’s about being flexible, being open to new ways of thinking, and being willing to make hard choices when necessary.” Her eyes meet his, a quiet certainty in her expression. “The discomfort of change is a sign that we’re moving, that we’re evolving. And that’s the heart of innovation — being willing to face the discomfort in order to build a better future.”

Jack: “I see what you mean. It’s not about avoiding discomfort, but understanding that it’s part of the process. That we have to go through the hard parts to get to the better version of what we want.” He pauses, almost as if the thought is taking root in a new way. “Maybe the struggle of change is what makes the future feel more worth it. It’s that growth, that shift, that makes us capable of achieving something greater.”

Jeeny: “Exactly. And it’s not just about individual growth. It’s about collective growth. Society, communities — we all have to adapt to changing circumstances, to the challenges of the present. And the only way to create a better future is to be willing to evolve, to change, and to do the hard work that it takes.” She smiles, the optimism in her voice clear. “Change might be uncomfortable, but it’s the only way to move forward, to create something better for ourselves and the people around us.”

Jack: “So, change isn’t something to fear. It’s something to embrace, as long as we’re focused on the goal — on what we’re working toward. The discomfort is just part of the journey.” His voice settles with a quiet sense of peace. “I think I understand now. It’s not about rejecting the past, but about finding a way to honor it while still growing and evolving.”

Jeeny: “Exactly. Change isn’t about throwing everything away. It’s about using what we’ve learned, what’s worked, as a foundation, and then building something new from there. That’s the power of innovation — it’s about making progress while still respecting where we came from.” Her smile deepens, a quiet reassurance in her words. “It’s about balance. And the courage to move forward, even when it’s difficult.”

Host: The room feels lighter now, the weight of their conversation turning into something hopeful, something inspiring. Jack and Jeeny have discovered that true progress and innovation come not from rejecting the past, but from understanding when to adapt, to evolve, and to embrace the discomfort of change. Change may not always be easy, but it’s through that discomfort that we find growth, purpose, and a better future.

Jack: “Maybe the hardest part isn’t the change itself. It’s the willingness to face the discomfort that comes with it.” He smiles, a new sense of peace settling over him. “But once we embrace that discomfort, the future starts to look a lot brighter.”

Jeeny: “Exactly. The discomfort of change is a sign that we’re moving forward, that we’re evolving. And that’s when we create something truly meaningful.” She smiles softly, her voice full of optimism. “And that’s where the magic of innovation lies.”

Host: The room is still now, filled with a shared understanding that change, while uncomfortable, is the foundation of progress. Jack and Jeeny have discovered that the discomfort we experience in the process of change is not something to fear, but something to embrace. It’s through that discomfort that we grow, evolve, and create a better future for ourselves and those around us. Change is the path to innovation, and innovation is the key to progress.