Writing a Book

I had a lot of fun blogging last year. Writing helped me get clear with a lot of the concepts I dealt with, and how they relate to others. So, on May 15, 2009, I started writing a book which I hope to publish this year. The title of the book is

Grace and Truth
Compassionate Communication for Christ Followers

Here's the draft of the Foreword:

My intention for this book is to contribute to increasing the quality of relationships of my readers through an integration of what I believe to be the heart of Christianity with Compassionate Communication (CC); CC is also known as “Nonviolent Communication” (NVC) by Marshall Rosenberg. This book is based on my experience and understanding. I have found that the core teachings of Jesus are essential for living a full life, and Compassionate Communication gives me a framework for putting its principals into practice; both are about becoming aware of my internal dialog so that I can be present to myself and others. I see this integration as a “spiritual discipline” of love in conversation.

I found this discipline to be somewhat difficult at first, though it became easier the more I practiced. I have participated in small groups of many kinds. The tools and philosophy in this book could be helpful in all of them, as well as in intimate relationships, the workplace, friendships, families, the teaching profession, healthcare, law enforcement, governance, and just being human. In short, it applies to any situation in which people interact and communicate.

For those who are Christian, this book will remind you of the principals of Christianity, and introduce some ways of putting them into practice. For those who are “spiritual but not religious” that would like to increase the quality and depth of connection in your lives as well as contribute to more harmony and peace in the world, this book can serve as a foundation for understanding Christians and finding common ground. This book is also for those who do not want to be identified as “Christian”, but who find inspiration in the message of Jesus. I have found that experiencing the consciousness of Christ can bring a level of healing and fulfillment where I experience awe, joy and sometimes deep sadness – all of which add to the depth of my life experience.

This book is less about intellectual Bible study than it is about applying its teachings to conversation. It is less about “belief”, and more about the practical application of the teachings of Christ. It is less about “doctrine” than about living in harmony with the values of Christ. It is definitely not about “rules contained in the law” – it is about the freedom to live in integrity, where one’s inside matches the outside. This book is about an invitation to participate and share in the loving creative expression of the gift of life, and occasionally using words to describe it.

I encourage you the reader to work the exercises, to answer and discuss the questions at the end of each chapter, and to join a Compassionate Communication practice group. My hope is that you too will find the clarity and fulfillment that I have found by following the heart & mind of Christ, and to experience his spirit of love in all of your relationships.