Mokita Dialogues: How to engage in courageous conversations as the holiday season begins

Jana Marie Foundation shines light on the importance of engaging in courageous conversations during its next virtual Mokita Dialogues on Thursday at 11 a.m. (tinyurl.com/MokitaDialogues).

As we enter the holiday season it is the perfect time to reflect on our blessings of health, family and friends, and community. While there is so much to be grateful for, it also is important to acknowledge that the holiday season can evoke a bunch of different emotions within ourselves.

It may bring memories of our loved ones who have left us too soon, or uneasiness as we prepare for the family conflict we may experience during holiday gatherings, or joy as we use our senses to embrace the magic of the season. All of these feelings are valid and should be embraced with kindness.

This year has brought the continued pandemic, a polarized political climate, growing mental health concerns, social justice unrest, and a variety of grief. These are big topics where differing views often exist. Relationships always take work, but add in the stresses from the past year, and navigating these challenging conversations can be difficult.

Engaging in courageous conversations is about individuals expressing their views openly and truthfully, rather than defensively or with the purpose of laying blame. By honoring our thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and inviting others to come to the table with their own, it can create space where we can find new and shared understanding.

It is important to keep in mind, building an atmosphere of trust and respect is key to enabling individuals to participate in these brave conversations.

However, before you can fully engage in a conversation, you need to make sure you are in the right space. It is OK to grant yourself permission to practice self-care by setting up boundaries as you enter into the holiday season.

If you are wishing to engage in courageous conversations, then the following steps may be beneficial:

• Ask yourself, “What are the assumptions I have about the topic and are these assumptions still valid?”

• Be open minded and ask clarifying questions. Remember it’s about finding common ground and acceptance, not necessarily agreement.

• Allow breathing space in the conversation. It is during these spaces where insights can occur between words.

• Bring a sense of vulnerability by acknowledging your emotions around the topic.

The Mokita Dialogues on Thursday will provide an opportunity for community members to come together and engage in dialogue about ways we can set boundaries, practice self-care, and honor our thoughts, feelings, and experiences as we engage in courageous conversations. This dialogue is free and open to the community. Join through Zoom by visiting www.tinyurl.com/MokitaDialogues.