Trainer Tip: Mary explains how Nonviolent Communication, a process that distinguishes needs from strategies is also itself, a strategy. Trainer Tip I care not so much what I am in the opinion ofothers as what I am in my own; I would be richof myself, and not by borrowing.—Michel Eyquem de Montaigne Human needs are universal and strategies are specific. Well, Compassionate Communication is a process, but also a strategy. The needs I try to meet by living and teaching this process are harmony, peace, fun, love, safety, joy, and deeper connection to my life. The needs are universal, and the strategy I have found that best meets those needs is Compassionate Communication. There are many ways to meet our needs in life, and we all choose the path that best suits us. The more open we are to creative ways to meet those needs, the more peaceful our lives and the world will be. Be aware of your strategies for living peacefully today. Notice if they are working for you or if you would like to consider new ones. This trainer tip is an excerpt from Mary Mackenzie's book Peaceful Living, available from PuddleDancer Press. Keywords: expression honesty needs requests strategies choice universal human needs Mary Mackenzie