Empathize with silence by listening for the feelings and needs behind it.

They have most likely said it because they have an unmet need.

Two things distinguish nonviolent actions from violent actions. First, you don't see an enemy and second, your intention is not to make the other side suffer.

People do not hear our pain when they believe they are at fault.

Violence comes from the belief that other people cause our pain and therefore deserve punishment.

The only time a message (label) can scare us is if we think there is such a thing, and that such a thing is a disgrace.

If the other persons behavior is not in harmony with my own needs, the more I empathize with them and their needs, the more likely I am to get me own needs met.