Empathy & Honesty
learning to communicate from compassion for self and others
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This Spring, LNPC is teaming up with Bryn Mawr Presbyterian to offer a 4 week introduction class in what is called “Non-Violent Communication” or NVC. Everything we say and do is a strategy to meet a deeper need, but most of the time we are not aware of those needs in ourselves or in others. This approach helps us listen at a deeper level so that new strategies for connection can emerge. NVC begins in honoring our common humanity. It helps us tap into our deeper compassion for ourselves and others, teaching us to communicate with both empathy and honesty.
The learning from this course is applicable in all relationships and situations – bosses, coworkers, and employees, parents and children, neighbors, relatives, customer service reps, even internet trolls. Wherever you are in communication with someone else, you can practice genuine empathy and frank honesty that upholds your own humanity and theirs as well. No previous experience necessary; we will be learning and practicing each week. (But if you have had some previous experience with NVC, please join us– it’s a great way to brush up and practice.) If you would like to read the book ahead of time, get Marshall Rosenberg’s Non-violent Communication: A Language for Life, or listen to the audiobook called, Nonviolent Communication: Create Your Life, Your Relationships, and Your World in Harmony with Your Values. You might also check out Youtube videos of Marshall Rosenberg in action – it’s quite something to behold! Because these classes build on each other, a commitment to all four weeks is mandatory. |
Thursdays in May:
May 2, 9, 23 & 30 (no class May 16) 6:30 – 8:30 pm LOCATION: TBD (probably will alternate between LNPC and Bryn Mawr) |
Class led by Kara Root & Jamie Shultz, who have each completed several week-long intensive trainings in NVC, (including serving as assistant leaders in two), and co-led a training for pastors in the Presbytery of the Twin Cities Area.
