So many of the problems in our relationships and in our world arise from a lack of skilful communication. If we want to heal our world, we need to set our relationships right. In order to do so, we need to learn a different—more effective—way of communicating with one another.

So much misunderstanding happens because we are not able to fully communicate in a way that ensures that our perceptions, feelings, and needs are truly heard and understood. We often communicate in immature and irresponsible ways which push the other person away—hardening and closing our hearts—having the exact opposite effect of what we’re seeking, which is intimacy and connection.

Imagine a world where we are able to get off our own position enough to truly listen with empathy and compassion to the other’s experience. It would end all suffering in relationships, all separation and all wars. While this global utopia may not (yet!) be possible, we can seek this level of clear communications in our personal relationships

Through deep listening, empathic understanding, honoring of our own and the others feelings and needs, we can learn how to respond rather than react to one another. And we move one step closer to creating peace in our relationships and our world.