Communication

Care with our communications is becoming more and more crucial, as WWW brings these communications across the globe in nanoseconds, and all the world becomes one small interconnected global village. This category includes: a gentle art of nonviolent communication, stigma sensitivity, even to gender sensitivity in the use of language when referring to God. Communications sensitivity stretches beyond words, to music, art and iconography.  Consider the differing significance of color or rhythm across different cultures.

LANGUAGE

Sensitivity with regard to language is extremely important to anyone who seriously holds the intent of non-harming.  Both Rosalynn Carter, when referring to mental health issues, and the Riverside Church, when referring to people who have been in prison [article], ask that you please use the word ‘people’ rather than ‘prisoners’ or negative slang such as ‘crazy.’  Similar thought can be taken in general, with various words that slide easily into common use, and while it can be tiresome to be always vigilant, imagine the gratitude, when you notice and stop sending unintended pain someone’s way.

Browse our  entries on ‘skillful communications’  - if there’s an area not yet covered, let us know!