1. St. Ignatius’ Pre-supposition: For a good relationship to
develop between two people, a mutual respect is very nec-
essary . . . . A favorable interpretation . . . should always
be given to the other’s statements. If misinterpretation
seems possible, it should be cleared up with Christian
understanding. So, too, if actual error seems to be held,
the best possible interpretation should be presented so
that a more correct understanding might develop.

2. Be sure you really understand the other person’s
conclusion, line of reasoning, personal history, and fears.

3. Be sure you address the other person’s conclusion, line of
reasoning, personal history, and fears.

4. Seek to “walk in the other person’s moccasins.”

5. Discipline yourself not to raise your voice or use rhetoric.

6. Discipline yourself to let the other person finish a thought
before you respond

This last one, while Catholic specific, you can substitute whatever your belief is.

7. If there is a Catholic position, it should be presented by you
and a knowledgeable source with the principal arguments
behind it. If there are other Catholic positions, these should
also be presented, as should perspectives from other faith
and moral traditions, not just those that you personally
favor.  

Not nearly as much fun as standing there calling the other party a bugger eating moron, but what a neat way to run an election! A man can dream.  [smiley=hug.gif]

Guiseppi

Not many like Ignatius I am afraid.

Yuz got that right!

Charlie

I like 'big picture" discussions. When two people engage in a conversation in which they take opposing positions, it is amazing what happens when the big picture-the whole, HUGE issue is considered.

Like Joe said, it helps, as well, if both sides come from a position of, mutual respect........
Otherwise, it is simply who can puff up their chest and yell the loudest..........and I, for one, don't listen to people who yell.......

just more food for thought.......

Cathi

Excellent post!  I try to hold most of these, but admit of often fail.

Jerry

My first job when I was 14 was working for a Jesuit Retreat house and later they became a client of mine. Over the years I have come to know some of the resident staff and they are some of the coolest people I know. St. Iggy knew how to be humble for sure.