Transforming Conflict

Having constructive conversations with Muslims, and with non-Muslims about Muslims, requires certain attitudes and skills. A desire for better relations is a great first step, but we've all had the experience of starting a conversation with the best of intentions and ending up stalemated or arguing within minutes. The attitudes and skills we explore in this section serve us well at home and the workplace as well as in interfaith settings. We recognize them when we see them in great people like Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., or the saints of history. While few of us will reach their stature and influence, we can all develop in our capacity to bring about peace..

St. Francis of Assisi
Image from the Church of Reconciliation at Taize

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The path to peacebuilding

To work consistently for peace, we need:

• inspiration
• understanding
• commitment and
• skills
  

This page is still under construction.

Skills for transforming conflict

Hostile statements about other people are usually based on

• a story    and
• a flurry of emotions

Peacebuilding requires that we

• become aware of our own and others' stories
• let go of our own story if it is limited by anger or fear
• look for a new and better story
• help others find new and more constructive stories

Marshall Rosenberg developed a curriculum for nonviolent communication that has been tested in the most intense conflicts in the world. He calls nonviolent communication "A Language for Life," because its clear goal is to bring about more abundant life for all the participants. His books, CD's and the Center for for Nonviolent Communication he founded are the best resource we yet know for individuals and groups to learn new and useful skills in peacebuilding.