“Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space there is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom. – Viktor Frankl, Austrian neurologist, psychiatrist, Holocaust survivor. As Viktor Frankl reminds us, there is space in the back and forth of a conversation. Often it’s difficult … Read more
We’ve all been there…apprehensive about a difficult conversation, especially with someone who for whatever reason, “gets under our skin”. Will we communicate what’s true without creating offense? Can we keep our emotions and egos in check? What will be the outcome? At A Table In Time we help participants delve into deeper, more complicated “topics”, … Read more
There’s nervousness in the air. People wonder if they’ll be liked. They feel nervous about being themselves. Even the most accomplished professionals and members of a team experience apprehension when gathering with co-workers and acquaintances. Like shiny toys we acquire, the list of our professional accomplishments tells a small part of a “success” story. Our … Read more
Hopefully disproportionately small in our lives, sorrow and tragedy are unfortunate parts of life. This means that, at some point, we’ll find ourselves in conversation with a friend, loved-one, co-worker or acquaintance facing a life challenge. Our natural instincts scream for us to fix whatever is broken. We want to find just the right phrase … Read more
It’s almost impossible these days not to engage in discussion about current events. Some of us have even joined protests to find our voice. Yet, concurrently many fear recrimination and remain silent. Silence might be interpreted as acceptance of the new status quo. Unfortunately, we might never know. Talking about issues is the “Elephant in … Read more
Gifts can come from strange places. My husband recently suffered a second injury within ten months of tearing his Achilles tendon. Despite the pain, he doesn’t complain. He’s focused, instead, on recovering and living! His calm demeanor has helped me stop my own complaining and settle into a new temporary routine. Eliminating the incessant, fretful … Read more
Imagine if every week we conversed about one question, exploring, contemplating, listening, sharing, pausing and, most of all, enjoying each other’s perspectives.The rewards of asking an intentional question every week would be huge.Sometimes we just want to ask questions so that we can understand what’s going on in a friend or loved one’s life! Ask … Read more
What we talk about with others defines the relationship: “The conversation is the relationship.”[1] Does this ring true for you? How we show up in our exchanges determines whether some sort of kinship develops or continues to grow. “Showing Up” means demonstrating a willingness to be honest, kind, and authentic with whomever you share your space. … Read more
In 2016 A Table In Time worked with a variety of clients in multiple venues. At each gathering, informal or formal, with or without food, and people meeting for the first time or learning more about one another, conversation unfolded beautifully! Why? Participants brought their best full selves to the table, listened exceedingly well, and … Read more
Growing up I remember one of my friend’s mom always saying “that everything was wonderful” and actually feeling that perhaps things weren’t as good as professed. “Wonderful” feels full of hyperbole. Yet feeling inspired is within reach. How? When we recognize and trust the simple good in the universe. “Wonderfuls” might include listening to the … Read more