A ski trip to the French Alps begins in a little less than a month. We’re feeling expectant and dreaming of stunning mountains visible for miles and miles. Although excited, scary scenarios intermittently pop into our heads. Something might go wrong before departure. Pre-trip jitters before any “Beginning” are normal, whether it’s preparing for travel … Read more
Last week I showed up at the wrong party! My mistake led me to the Governor’s Mansion! Although beautifully decorated, as I wandered around the room, not far from shaking hands with Governor Hickenlooper, it became clear that none of the guests looked familiar. What party was this? My calendar had confused dates for the … Read more
When crossing a street we hold tightly to the small hands of our children. We steadfastly want to protect them and bolster their sense of security. Holding tightly is analogous to “standing firm” in conversations. Our children are precious. So are you! Think about a time when you had to communicate something difficult or … Read more
“I don’t want to talk about this right now.” No other sentence stops conversation like this one. The recipient feels unheard. In response we retort: “I can’t move forward with my day (my project, my work, with going to sleep) without having a conversation NOW”. Are you someone who can wait? Most of us can’t. Perhaps … Read more
It’s shocking how early in the morning our minds start racing down the day’s track and yet the sun is barely in the sky. Frenetic energy also affects family members, those who move a little “slower”. Which are you, the snail or the Road Runner? Beep Beep. Running around like a crazy person at any … Read more
When recently travelling to Spain, my husband and I with marginal Spanish abilities and a little effort enjoyed interactions wherever we explored. Sometimes our efforts translated into a bowl of green olives “on the house”! Although starting a conversation required some extra energy, the rewards were worth it, even if just for the smile and … Read more
Interacting with others is a multi-dimensional experience! On Wednesday night The Beehive Collective, “an all-volunteer swarm of educators, artists, and activists using images to communicate” presented “Mesoamérica Resiste”[1], a large intricate illustration depicting indigenous cultures and over 400 species of insects, animals and plants, resisting global systems. Examining the poster’s details, really studying the myriad … Read more
It’s intimidating to enter a room as the new employee or guest when people already know one another. Conversation is buzzing and you look around wondering how to make a graceful entrance. There doesn’t seem to be a place to sit other than at the end of the table! You don’t want to interrupt. “Breaking … Read more
In Mexico last week, we “hola”-ed everywhere and conversation flowed. With a friendly “Hola”, interacting with new people became easy. What is it about travelling that opens us to conversing with strangers? How might we incorporate a “traveler” mentality into our daily interactions? Oh, to be on vacation all the time! Yes, time was on … Read more
At a recent cross-cultural, cross-faith event, hosts enthusiastically met each attendee at the door. Guests were coming together from different religious backgrounds and we wanted our greeting to put them at ease. For some it was the first time to be in a church. The sincere welcome created immediate comfort. How we invite someone “to … Read more