Compassionate Communication

Human beings have one amazing power, but one power only — the power of choice.

This is the last article in a series centered around how to be maximally empowered in relationships, especially relationships with persons of deficient or disturbed character. In prior articles, we’ve discussed many empowerment tools such as never accepting excuses for inappropriate conduct, staying focused and in the here and now and remaining calm when confronting negative behavior, judging actions and not intentions, and setting limits and enforcing boundaries:

Back on Aug. 11, Jenni Ware, 45, of Redwood City, Calif., was standing in line at Trader Joe's with a cartful of groceries when she realized she didn't have her wallet. Waiting behind the near-panicked hypnotherapist, was Carolee Hazard, 43, who couldn't help but notice her fellow shopper's potential jam.