A couple of weeks ago, I wrote about my new “multi-generational” tennis class and the fantastic people I’ve met there. Well, one of those just happens to be my age (which is kind of a shocker), and, recently, she’s been dealing with ending her marriage.

I wish I could say it was her decision to end the marriage and that she felt really good about it. But, that’s not the case. It’s been ugly, difficult, and confusing – and, she’s been through an awful lot of introspection and…

My conflict resolution colleague, Jim Melamed, has been in the middle of some pretty gnarly conflicts. And he has seen some pretty amazing outcomes.

Why?

Because he is a mediator and a darn good one.

Jim wrote an article for mediate.com entitled “Effective Conversations in American Society.”

He’s tired … tired of the of the political posturing that is feeds on the…

The left hand side of our brain is logical, sequential, rational, analytical, objective and focuses on parts.

It is what we call upon to solve problems in an organized and methodical way.

It helps us memorize, prioritize and make decisions.

Turns out that we use it about 90% of the time.

The right hand side of our brain is random, intuitive, synthesizing and subjective. And it looks at the whole.

It tries different approaches and…

I’ve always wanted to be a great tennis player (which could be why I have all three of my children playing), but, alas, it was not meant to be. I don’t mean to sound defeatist, but frankly, I’m not much of an athlete and never will be. It’s OK–I have other talents.

Why the personal tale of tennis woes? Because I’ve found a lot of joy this past year taking a “cardio” tennis class with a group of (mostly) seniors at our club. I can run to the ball, but can’t hit. They can hit…

Conflict has taken hold.

Communication has broken down.

Everyone has become less flexible.

The sides have retreated to their respective corners.

Each party wants to defeat the other – so one side MUST lose.

Tension mounts – resolution seems remote.

That’s what’s occurring in the foreground.

But if you are lucky, there is at least one person who isn’t as entrenched as everyone else.…

How many times have you been upset at your spouse, partner, child? If you’re like most of us, the number is too high to count! But, do you still love that person? If the relationship is important enough, you’ll work through it and continue to love that person long after the conflict is over.

When I was a very young girl, there was couple that lived next door – Harry and JR. I wanted to marry Harry.

I couldn’t tell you now what he looked like or recall the sound of his voice. All I can remember is that he was a wonderful person to be around – warm and inviting.

Actually, I picked today’s blog topic not because of Harry, but because of a few people I know who are basically angry and disgruntled. They have a few bright moments now and then,…