The Chinese philosopher Chuang-Tzu stated that true empathy requires listening with the whole being: The hearing that is only in the ears is one thing. The hearing of the understanding is another. But the hearing of the spirit is not limited to any one faculty, to the ear, or to the mind. Hence it demands the emptiness of all the faculties. And when the faculties are empty, then the whole being listens. There is then a direct grasp of what is right there before you that can never be heard with the ear or understood with the mind.
Marshall B. RosenbergWhile 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.
Marshall B. RosenbergUnderstanding the other persons' needs does not mean you have to give up on your own needs.
Marshall B. RosenbergIn NVC, no matter what words others may use to express themselves, we simply listen for their observations, feelings, needs, and requests.
Marshall B. Rosenberg