At Wellspring, we use a Respectful Communications Covenant as we gather around tables to be in conversation with our neighbobr. This covenant highlights expectations along with the posture (grace-filled and loving communcation) in which we listen and speak.

 

RESPECTFUL COMMUNICATION COVENANT:   

R = Take RESPONSIBILITY for what you say and feel without blaming others.
E = Engage in EMPATHETIC listening.
S = Be SENSITIVE to differences in communication styles.
P = PONDER on what you hear and feel before you speak.
E = EXAMINE your own assumptions and perceptions.
C = Keep CONFIDENTIALITY.
T = TOLERATE ambiguity because we are not here to debate who or what is right or wrong.

Eric H. F. Law  (Inclusion: Making Room for Grace)