“As you cultivate empathy in your life the drive or compulsion to judge starts to evaporate.”Rich RollHumans love duality. But there is great beauty in the grey that lives between the lines.Black and white. Good and bad. Evolution and regression. We are hard wired to categorize. To pick a team and stick with it. It’s our way of making sense of the world. But too often this inclination to self-identify only serves to isolate and divide — working at cross-purposes with our competing desire to more deeply connect with our fellow humans.So what happens when we resist the urge to judge another? This week on the podcast Julie and I peer beyond dogma, belief systems and categories to embrace the grey.Consider it a thought experiment in forsaking judgment for empathy as a path to better understand others and the environments we co-inhabit.Specific topics include:* creating and cultivating community* the difference between discernment and judgment* enhancing sustainability in consumer choice* finding your authentic voiceWe end the episode with a rendition of the Hedy West song 500 Miles by Julie (aka SriMati) and our boys' band Ana Leimma.I sincerely hope you enjoy the conversation.Peace + Plants,P.S. – Julie and I are thrilled to announce that we will be hosting our second retreat —Plantpower Tuscany October 1-8, 2016. As of the date of this post, there are a few spots still available but they are likely to go quickly. So if you want to attend and experience a magical week in Italy exploring your inner landscape, please get in touch with us soon. For everything you need to know about the program, itinerary, pricing and accommodations please visit plantpowerworld.comListen & Subscribe on iTunes | Soundcloud | Stitcher | GooglePlayThanks to this week’s sponsors:Harrys.com: A superior shave at an affordable price. Type in my coupon code “ROLL” at purchase for $5 off your starter set and get an entire month’s worth of shaving for just $10 when you visit Harrys.com/Roll.RING has designed a myriad of products designed to reduce crime in communities. For a limited time, Rich Roll Podcast listeners get $50 off the ‘Ring of Security Kit’. Visit Ring.com/Rich.SHOW NOTESConnect With Rich: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTubeConnect With Julie: SriMati.com | Instagram | Twitter | FacebookBackground, Context & Reference: See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.