I'm Not Listening

Recently I was visiting with a friend and we were having a lively discussion about something --I can’t remember what. In the middle of our conversation, he said to me, “Could you repeat that? I wasn’t listening.” The honesty of that statement was precious and frankly, funny to me. How many people would say that? How many people would lie and say something else, like “I didn’t hear you,” for fear of the repercussions of their honesty? Would you be offended?

inspiration, Communication, RelationshipsTerrie LewineMarch 3, 2026listening, empathy, nonviolent communication, nvc, needsComment

Nonviolent Communication ~ My Hope for the Future. Here's Why:

Nonviolent Communication remains the only body of work (at least that I’m aware of) which encourages (insists?) on tracking the needs of everyone as being equally important. In my opinion this is the essential skill to embrace, no matter how egregious what we are seeing and experiencing is to us.

inspiration, Communication, Mindfulness, RelationshipsTerrie LewineFebruary 21, 2026nonviolent communication, conflict resolution, needs, careComment

Broken Record Syndrome

As you are finding ways to relate to your partner (and others), remember that practicing is the only way you will make the new grooves in your capacity to create something new.

Communication Basics ~ A Brief Overview of Nonviolent Communication

Read more for a brief overview of Nonviolent Communication. Hoping it will wet your appetite for learning more!

inspiration, Communication, Relationships, MindfulnessTerrie LewineFebruary 5, 2026nonviolent communicaiton, communicationComment

Banging In the Night

Sharing my story about the noises in my wall to illustrate the meaning I’ve made and the feelings that I had as a result of my thoughts. The needs are the same: safety, security. My feelings of distress were because I was sure that those needs weren’t being met. The noise meant something bad was happening. I was certain that was true. The same noise, 10 years later, I felt more calm and relaxed because the meaning I made of the noise in my wall was that I was safe and warm. The noise itself, was the same.

"Release Me Please"

I might enjoy being enveloped in a juicy hug when I do something that someone is grateful for. Yet, it isn’t true that I want a hug from just anyone. Anyway, this isn’t about hugging, this is about honesty and considering the needs of everyone equally important in relationships.

inspiration, Communication, Relationships, MindfulnessTerrie LewineJanuary 21, 2026needs, honesty, nonviolent communication, Best Medicine, commercialComment

Swipe Left

What is your capacity to swipe left? Is it before you say or do something that you regret?

The Difference Between Belonging and Fitting In

Those of us who haven’t had our deep belonging needs met while growing up find it difficult to experience it well as an adult. Instead, we use the strategy of fitting in. Even at the cost of being seen for who we truly are. This can get very messy very quickly.