People have been trained to criticize, insult, and otherwise communicate in ways that create distance among people.

What all the basic religions are saying is this: Don't do anything that isn't play.

NVC can be effectively applied at all levels of communication and in diverse situations: intimate relationships, families, schools, organizations and institutions, therapy and counseling, diplomatic and business negotiations, disputes and conflicts of any nature.

I wouldn't expect someone who's been injured to hear my side until they felt that I had fully understood the depth of their pain.

NVC suggests behind every action, however ineffective, tragic, violent, or abhorrent to us, is an attempt to meet a need.

While we may not consider the way we talk to be 'violent,' our words often lead to hurt and pain, whether for others or for ourselves.

When we judge others we contribute to violence.