> I don't know where compassion comes in. I think that if we listen in this
> way and don't commit until commitment isn't necessary, then we will also
> have compassion in a practical sense. (In the same sense that one of the
> great modern thinkers said on his death bed, "I don't know if we can all
> love each other. But we certainly could try being kinder to each other.")
> Mike McMaster <Michael@kbddean.demon.co.uk>
I have found that the best way to influence the outcome of a discussion is
to participate in the "group grope" then introduce the obvious course of
action at a point when the group in stalled. It works like a charm but
does involve considerable art. If I introduce the "solution" at the
outset, it is rejected because it is too soon to decide. If I do not
participate in the grope, then I haven't earned the right to interject my
opinions. Interesting dynamics. This might be considered "manipulative"
but I don't like such nasty labels. I call it effective sense of timing!!
-- Keith Cowan Phone: (416)565-6253 FAX: (905)858-7131 Toronto Internet: cowan@pci.on.ca Compuserve: 72212,51