If we want to be compassionate we must be conscious of the words we use. We must both speak and listen from the heart.

At the root of every tantrum and power struggle are unmet needs.

I don't think you can have an authentic connection when one person is diagnosing the other.

Empathy lies in our ability to be present without opinion.

As NVC replaces our old patterns of defending, withdrawing or attacking in the face of judgment and criticism. We come to perceive ourselves and others, as well as our intentions and relationships, in a new light. Resistance, defensiveness, and violent reactions are minimized.

Punishment also includes judgmental labeling and the withholding of privileges.

A second even more obvious sign is that the person will stop talking. If we are uncertain as to whether we have stayed long enough in the process, we can always ask, "Is there more that you wanted to say"?