Cohousing-L Mailing List: Re: Use of email (Jasen Robillard)

[Ann Zabaldo (zabaldo]

No Jasen, I’m not at all surprised that this discussion is taking place on this 
list.  

This is a very very respectful list.  We have over the years developed a set of 
norms for posting to this list.  And people seem to follow them both ol’ timers 
and newbies.  And it’s moderated.  Altho’ Fred doesn’t have much to do in this 
regard because we ARE so respectful.  

What I was hearing is what is the “best” medium for handling issues when they 
erupt in serious conflict.  I don’t think it’s healthy to flame a neighbor or 
anyone in person or on email.  The challenge is that on email there is more 
chance for misunderstanding because the social cues are not available.

After reading this thread I realized I actually, don’t have ANY objection to 
issues being discussed on email.  The concern I have is the ease w/ which 
people morph into flaming.  It’s like striking a match.  And then people bring 
that “event” into other events in the community.  Or worse … flame on email and 
then be very respectful F2F.   Like nothing transpired.  Nice in person and 
harsh on email.  Doesn’t work for  me. 

I think Sharon hit the nail in her most recent posting:    a solid, well 
thought out and USED conflict resolution process would go a long, long way to 
reducing stress in our communities.

Best --

Ann Zabaldo
Takoma Village Cohousing
Washington, DC
Principal, Cohousing Collaborative, LLC
Falls Church VA
703-688-2646
On Feb 12, 2014, at 10:42 AM, Jasen Robillard <jasen [at] 
connexuscohousing.com> wrote:

> 
> Does anyone else find it ironic that this rich and fruitful discussion is
> happening over an email listserv?
> 
> 
> *Jasen Robillard*
> *Dragonfly Cohousing - Calgary*
> 
> 
>