It’s from the edges of our life that some of our greatest opportunities for learning and growth come. I can safely say theatrical experience is at the edge of my life. So, when I met with the Lina de Guevara this week, for a conversation, I knew I was going to discover some new things. […]
The Railway Switchman and The Mediator: Your Relationship Guides
March 29, 2012 by · 2 Comments
The railway switchman and the mediator. So different, yet so much alike. Both focus on relationships. The switchman: Knows where the trains are coming from Sees where the trains want to go Looks ahead to the crossings and transfer points Safely guides the trains forward to their new destinations Like a switchman, the mediator […]
Looking Back: 30 Lessons for Living from the Wisest Americans
March 25, 2012 by · 2 Comments
I’m a semi-regular viewer of the PBS Newshour. I especially enjoy that TV program when it offers up a serendipitous connection. A recent show did just that. It included an interview of Karl Pillemer, noted gerontologist, and Professor of Human Development at Cornell University. The interview context was his new book, 30 Lessons for Living: […]
12 Steps to a Life of Extraordinary Collaboration
March 21, 2012 by · 1 Comment
There is no shortage of big problems facing us today; in our communities, cities, globally! These problems are complex. There are many parts to the problem, and how all the parts connect together can be a mystery. What the solution is, another mystery. What to do? Collaborate. (You knew I’d say that, right?) And, the bigger […]
What if an Aboriginal mindset governed Canada?
March 9, 2012 by · Leave a Comment
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada is coming to my city next month. Next week its in neighbouring towns. It’s making the rounds on Vancouver Island. It’s on a long journey. Why is it here? In the Commission’s own words, For over 100 years in Canada, Aboriginal children were removed from their families […]
Cooking, Faith and Community Building in Victoria
March 1, 2012 by · 2 Comments
Do not rub your eyes after chopping a bunch of green chilli peppers. For me, this learning opportunity took place at a recent cooking class and cultural event that I attended, hosted by the Hindu faith community. Not only did I learn a better way to work with chillies (rub your hands with cooking oil […]
Agricultural creativity and the mediators craft
February 19, 2012 by · Leave a Comment
My earliest years were spent on a farm. My dad was a farmer. In their own way, farmers are experts in relationships and sustainability. And so when I read a blog post last week on agriculture and creativity, penned by the renowned writer (and blogger, too!), Paulo Coelho, immediately my mind resurfaced strong feelings for […]
