Applying Nonviolent Communication to hot topics

[Diana]

Really good video. I agree with Nia—I like the way she includes compassion for self, and "choicefulness."

I'm familiar with NVC and utilize the basic ideas when communicating. I started out with the intention of making difficult conversations more effective (such as with a partner), but now use this general way of interacting all the time.

I will also say that I love intellectual conversation, and that unfolds a little differently, since the idea is to develop one's ideas and express them clearly, while also listening to counterpoints, evolving as you go (rather than resolving as with a personal conflict). I think debating can be healthy and mind-expanding. But the same principal of checking in with reaction is best applied. When emotional reactions enter the scene, it's time to regroup, because the energy has changed from objective (detached) to subjective (attached).

It is interesting to observe self when reactive emotions take hold. I think it's common to have the feeling of not being heard. The typical childhood on 3D Earth, no matter how seemingly healthy, is still full of distortions and guidance by distorted adults. Not many adults really communicate equally with children. So where does this leave us as adults, having been children who were not taken seriously or really listened to at all? Breaking the patterns with techniques such as NVC is a good tool for evolution.