My LifeVIEW
Because each of us is a unique being, with unique influences, experiences and genetic compositions, we never perceive things in exactly the same way. Engaging with differing perspectives invites us to open our eyes to new ways of seeing, thinking and choosing to act. I envision a world of endless possibilities co-created by people with different, sometimes contentious, points of view who are willing to commit to honest, generative communication in search of shared understanding and workable solutions.
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Influences and experiences contributed to my lifeVIEW:
- I grew up on a small farm in rural Iowa where I learned to appreciate the natural resources that sustain us—land, rainwater, sunshine and fresh air.
- At age sixteen, I married my life-partner and ever since have been negotiating my way through cohabitating, co-parenting and co-managing a lively household while pursuing my education, class by class.
- I earned Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the University of Nebraska, Omaha in human communication studies with emphasis in psychology; and my PhD from Benedictine University, Chicago in organizational development and change with an emphasis in complex processes of human interaction.
- I co-founded the Sustainability Leadership Institute (2004) to support leaders dedicated to sustaining life in their organizations, neighborhoods, communities and world.
- In 2007, I suffered a traumatic brain injury that turned my life upside down. During the years of recovery, I strengthened my resolve to get the word out about an idea that has been simmering in my heart and mind for many years: Human quality of life and long-term survival are dependent on our willingness and ability to practice morally responsible, generative communication.
What influences and experiences contributed to your lifeview?