Cohousing-L Mailing List: Re: Managing Outbursts in Meetings

[LScottr2go (LScottr2go]

I think Lynn's idea is GREAT.  Just getting actively listened to, if there's someone with the skills to do it, is a great diffuser.  Linda Scott, Cascadia Commons Cohousing, Portland, OR


In a message dated 4/13/2002 4:02:19 PM Pacific Daylight Time, welcome [at] olympus.net writes:


> One idea I have is that when someone has an up-welling of such an 
> emotional commentary, they signal their distress (waving hands in air, 
> like Stop! Stop!) and choose someone to step outside with them, hear 
> their venting, and then return to the group with them (or without) and 
> "translate" the concern back to the group, minus the emotional overlay. 
> "Help! I need a translator!" 
>
> This seems like it could satisfy the vent-er's need to immediately 
> unburden themselves, get the essence of their concern heard, and spare 
> all concerned a certain embarrassment and reverberation.
>
> Has any group tried this, or an alternative, in such cases? I emphasize 
> that this is exceptional, in our group, but we'd be better off with a 
> plan. Ideas? 
>
>
>
> Lynn Nadeau, RoseWind Cohousing
> Port Townsend Washington (Victorian seaport, music, art, nature)
> http://www.rosewind.org
> http://www.ptguide.com