July 26, 2005

Dr. Marjorie Timms, Ph.D., former Academic Director for Boulder Creek Academy, will facilitate the Nonviolent Communication Workshops in Bonners Ferry, ID.

Imagine a world in which conflict is no longer necessary, a world in which individuals, families, schools, businesses, communities and countries can resolve their differences peacefully, using a language of nonviolence.

Nonviolent communication, ‘The Language of the Heart,’ is based on Ghandi’s view of nonviolence as the state that exists when “violence has subsided from the heart.” This approach was introduced by Dr. Marshall Rosenberg and is currently practiced in 40 countries throughout the world.

Marjorie Timms trained with the International Center for Nonviolent Communication and led NVC groups and programs in Arizona for several years prior to moving to Northern Idaho. NVC was introduced last year to students and faculty of Boulder Creek Academy, along with a group of area residents who met each week at BCA to “practice” using the process of compassionate communication. The Center for Nonviolent Communication has issued a special invitation to all former CEDU employees who may be interested in working with this system as they move on to new employment or join the soon-to-be open new schools in Boundary County.

On Tuesday evening, August 2, Boundary County and area residents will have the opportunity to experience a way of communicating in which everyone’s needs can be met in a nonviolent, compassionate dialogue. This free event runs from 7-9:30 p.m., at the United Methodist Church in Bonners Ferry and is open to all area residents..

In a relaxed and open exchange, participants will have the opportunity to consider a workable method for interacting with others in ways that are powerful, without being a power struggle—open, honest, and authentic, without leading to conflict. The introduction will include practical tools for communicating with feelings being acknowledged and needs identified and shared.

The introductory evening will be followed by three workshops on August 9, 23, and 30, with an opportunity to participate in a regular NVC Practice Group, starting on Sunday evening, August 21. All events are offered free of charge; those who wish may make a contribution to the Center for Nonviolent Communication.

To register for the NVC Introduction, Workshops, and Practice Group, call Marjorie Timms at 208-267-4241 or giraffespeak@earthlink.net. For more information about Nonviolent Communication, please visit the website: http://www.cnvc.org