We’ve discussed what’s next for us:
We fully expect that discourse will indeed increase over the next several years and we are prepared to step up to the plate and take on the potential increase of mediations.
When Terri and I attended a recent mediation conference, we were shocked to find out that there’s an influx of divorce and separation mediations for seniors. Either they’ve grown tired of each other, or due to medical debt that strips away any assets a couple might have.
We are fortunate to be part of a network of mediators across Texas and close cadre of D/FW mediators. We constantly learn from each other, co-mediate and rely on each other.
As more and more folks will have to tighten their belts in the coming years, it will put more stress on how survive with less Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, especially here in Texas. Or with the advent of “your body, my choice,” a form of mental and/or physical abuse. Which by law, we have to report to the authorities.
Mediators are a less expensive way than attorneys to help navigate a reasonable solution that all parties can live with. Attorneys are hired for one side to win and the other side to lose, a zero-sum game. Some situations absolutely do need attorneys and judges to resolve disputes, but quite a few can be resolved with mediation. (For example, only a judge can grant a divorce, but we can provide recommendations for attorneys that can write the final decree that the parties agree to through mediation.)
We work as a neutral third party to bring both sides to the table together to allow each side to speak and work through discussion points with our neutral guidance, where both sides work towards a possible solution that may not make everyone happy, but it can be an agreement that everyone can live with.
There are many ways to hold mediations: in-person, on Zoom, and hybrid.
With Zoom, we are able to bring everyone into a safe environment and in the same “room” to discuss, however long it takes, possible solutions. Also with Zoom, we don’t have to be in the same town, city, or state. We have already performed mediations where parties are in other states and countries. Travel is also an option, as we offer mediations all across Texas and New Mexico.
Another advantage over attorneys, mediators are less expensive. We are part of a seasoned group of mediators and we co-mediate with others on the more difficult mediations. There is a large network of mediators we’re proud to be a part of, and can bring in co-mediators on unique or difficult cases, or if need be, we can recommend for your situation. As we tell parties when we co-mediate, two heads are better than one, especially when we can understand each side of an issue.
Martin Luther King, Jr. once said in a different context: “Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only Light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only Love can do that.” (Strength to Love, 1963)
We are Americas Peacemakers
Namaste, Peace Be With You!
– Image: Pogo, 1971, comic by Walt Kelly
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