Another possibility to consider

[bobbolink]

I have previously suggested that, in your quest for more civility in DU, that you consider having some sort of liatening and peace training available here.

I came across something I had made note of quite some time ago, and submit it for your consideration.

It is an online class in Nonviolence, and the first lesson is learning to listen well:

http://www.salsa.net/peace/conv/

http://www.salsa.net/peace/conv/8weekconv1-1.html

If We Listen Well
By Edward Guinan
For too long we have considered peace as the absence of conflict. We have approached the issue wit this limited perspective and have directed our attention to the prevailing conflict of the moment, attempting to discover ways of reducing the destructiveness of the event. This approach is both necessary and desirable, but insufficient as we continue to approach the problem in a fragmented and isolated way. We continue to deal in symptomatic terms as if war and destruction and violence are the extensions and natural outgrowths of malignant attitudes, values, relationships, and beliefs that we continue to embrace.

Peace
Conflict will always be an integral part of human life but our methods of dealing with it need to change. We must be willing to develop and ongoing critical view of our values, operating premises and relationships, and a sensitivity to those about us.
Peace demands that one anticipate the effects of his views and actions on others and the unifying or destructive effects they may have. Most importantly one comes to realize that the "end" does not justify the "means": we get what we do, not what we hope for or intend. You cannot improve a man through punishment, notr can you bring peace through war or brotherhood through brutalization.

Finally one comes to appreciate the reality that there can be not "we's" and "they's" in our lives but only brothers and sisters - all children of God - all sacred and dignified. Destruction of any one t=of these God-gifts means a certain destruction of oneself, and a mystery that is gone forever from this small, fragile world.

[Skinner]

1. If anyone wants to attempt some peace training...

...they are more than welcome to do so.

[bobbolink]

2. I guess that answers the priority question.

Helps to make things make more sense.