Communication Guide

You jumped in. Congratulations! We have some hints to keep you afloat as you communicate with women from other cultures.

General Tips
Just when you think you know it all, a woman from another part of the world shares her story with you. Initially, at some level, you may have thought you were helping her by entering this conversation. Surprise! You may learn more about yourself. You can expect to bump up against biases and assumptions you didn't know you had.

How do any of us move beyond these? What can we expect along the way? Here are some reminders and helpful hints.

• Self-reflection - When you are self-aware, your assumptions become more apparent. You can identify them and move past them into authentic communication.
• Understanding - Clarify communication by expressing back to the other person what you think you have understood from her.
• Moving beyond Assumptions - Our histories, thoughts, and experiences color what we hear and observe. When you are aware of yours they are less likely to interfere or be projected into your communications.
• Turning Points - Expect that moment when something shifts and you suddenly feel closer to the other because of your common understanding.

Wisdom from Our Sister Matches

• You are all responsible for setting the tone of your communications. If it goes off track, you can be the one to bring it back.
• Start slowly and simply, asking about each other's lives, families, and work.
• Be prepared for different levels of formality and personal sharing.
• Be patient and allow several months of neutral and perhaps formal communication. The turning point that takes your communication to a deeper level will come when the time is right.
• Expect some awkwardness in the beginning. Perseverance and determination will get you through.
• Share about your relationships - often a common bond among women.
• Add lighter topics into deep discussions for balance.
• Build trust over time.
• Be clear about your expectations.
• Allow for mistakes.
• Allow for time gaps because of family and work priorities and internet outages.
• Ask your sisters if there is something you asked or shared that has caused a lack of communication.
• Show interest by doing basic research on your sisters' culture, religion, and country.
• Assume that the other is going to great effort and perhaps even expense to communicate with you. She is invested, or she would not be a Peace X Peace member.
• Remember not to "fix" or advise, but to listen compassionately or share from your own experience.
• Be prepared for cultural misunderstandings. They are part of the learning process and the fun. Be ready to laugh at yourself!
• Remember that sharing heavy concerns and challenges is not necessarily a request for help.

Tips for Email Communication

• Start each note with an affectionate greeting.
• You will never go wrong with warm adjectives and words of concern.
• Avoid bold type - IT SOUNDS LOUD!
• Question marks have power. They can be misinterpreted?
• Always sit and listen to your heart before you send an email.