Practical Book Review of Petersen Text Essay Example

Practical Book Review of Petersen Text Paper Petersen (2007) then illustrates in his book what he envisions to be the stomach (emotions), heart (objectives and interpretations), and the head (which is where we draw our logical conclusions), to resemble. Flat brain occurs when ones stomach is filled to capacity with uncomfortable emotions and feelings (Petersen, 2007). This in return then upwardly impacts the heart, resulting in squashing the brain; therefore causing it to go flat. He then reminds the reader that one has a choice to become defensive, and be overtaken by this phenomenon, or to collaborate with those who are involved, to bring about a positive outcome. In part ;o, the talker listening process, is how Petersen (2007) describes he method of relieving the symptoms of flat brain; this process involves taking turns talking and listening (p. 49). Petersen (2007) also discusses stomach talk, meaning that one is only allowed to share his or her own insecurities, rather than blaming others (p. 78). He warns his readers that sharing and thinking is risky business, however, worth it in exchange for a more cherished relationship (p. 82). Petersen (2007) then uses the recipe of two parts personal and one part logical, to balance the scales of communication (p. 85). In part three Petersen (2007), introduces overall listening techniques to further ones communication, including the six communication pitfalls (p. 1 16-121 These pitfalls are an attempt to Set in control of the conversation, as well as a clever form of manipulation on TTY part of the speaker (Petersen, 2007). We will write a custom essay sample on Practical Book Review of Petersen Text specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Practical Book Review of Petersen Text specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Practical Book Review of Petersen Text specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer He then goes on to explain the two levels of communication; the first being more superficial, and the second, emerging into a deeper level of how one is truly feeling emotionally. Petersen (2007) ends this portion of the book reminding one to be careful o hidden agendas, and taking on more serious cases such as, someone suggesting us iced. In the last sections four and five, Peters (2007) takes on the challenge of BRI inning it all together with examples of the listening game. This is where families learn to interact in a safe family environment. This is especial helpful for children, while reinforcing the taking turns skills they have already learned growing up. Peterson (2007) then reintroduces the TTL card to the group setting; which allows everyone a chance to be heard, respected, and better express themselves. As Petersen (2007) wraps up the book, he suggests that the TTL card can be useful with monitoring couples, as well as sharing, negotiating, and closing (p. 203). Lastly, he leaves us with his philosophy, which is to leave people and place ± in better a better condition than when I found them (p. 209). Respond When I began reading Peterson (2007) I was amazed at hi candidness, his story drew me in immediately. Because I am a published author myself, understand how difficult transparency can be. Petersen (2007) provokes one to deal with the selfish nature within, in addition to need to win attitude (p. 7). This portion of the book spoke volumes to me. I grew up in a time where winning was everything at home, school and church. However, I always seem to be the one who lost. I cowered beneath the hand of my older sister, strict father, and hierarchy of the church. When I became a young woman, I vowed never to be mistreated by anyone. Quickly learned to fight back, and believed I had become a winner. During this time in my life I had achieved great success in the natural world; however, I had become very confrontational to my husband and demanding with my chi lilied. Petersen (2007) talks about the six communication traps, and as guilty on all charges (p. 1 16-122). I was constantly dragging my kids and husband into the courtroom, so that I could prove my case like Perry Mason (p. 116). Often times I won, however, I was destroying my marriage and distancing our children. I did not know how to control my emotions when I was challenged with issues. Petersen (2007) refers to this problem as flat brained (p. 10). Eventually, my marriage ended, and I paid a very costly price for not knowing how to listen better. Years later, I am remarried, and have put into practice the TTL card without my husband even knowing it. Have also learned that defending is attacking, (p. 1 08) and enjoy using the double- reverse-twist to ward off feelings of defensiveness (Petersen, 2007, p. 43). Reflect Because we are reading three different listening skills books within a small time frame it becomes difficult to separate the three. It is the useful names used in the techniques is what creates a difference in each book. Petersen (2007) stands out because of his illustration of the flat brain. We have all experienced it; however describing how it occurs from the first onset is what make one conscious that an attack is on its way. He takes that which is spiritual, which is the spirit of offense, and makes it practical, so that everyone can understand what is really taking place in the mind. One observation that represented an ah ha moment was when Peterson (2007) talked about observing pays dividends (p. 58). He discusses what happens when one is fully aware of his/her behavior, and is able to adjust it to accommodate the other person, as in the case of Mary and her mother (p. 58-60). This practical teaching lines up with the book of Romans chapter twelve. If I were to narrow it down to one verse, it would be, Be kindly affectionate one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another Romans 12:10 (KAVA). This is very useful to me when dealing with the majority of friends who call me to talk. I have given over to having a mutual friendship, and have resolved that would always play the role of the listener. This technique helps to remind me of what I should be doing spiritually nonetheless; it also helps me not to become resentful concerning the call that God has mandated over my life. It is sometimes difficult to accept that we are always playing a role. Though it is true that we grow stronger in character, and in love, during these perpetual times of pressure. Act The TTL is one of the valuable instruments that I will add to my tool box of listening (Petersen, 2007). On the personal side, I have two daughters, of whom I am very close to. I have now learned to slow down and listen. I can now listen without owning their problems! I believe that was my biggest challenge with the both of them; that little card has set me free! I now understand am not there to solve their problems, however, to only be a nonjudgmental sounding board. also understand that there will be occasions when I Will be tempted to fall for the l feel that trap. Moreover, I will resist the urge to disagree, agree, or force my advice on my young adult daughters. I now realize that they only need me to be a good mother, role model, and listener (Petersen, 2007, p. 78). Also have three sisters whom I enjoy spending girl talk time with. We all jump in whenever someone pauses to take a breath. It will be exciting to introduce the TTL card ATA casual dinner (Petersen, 2007). Petersen (2007) has also given me new tools to use in my ministry. God has taken me through a transformation since my life changing divorce in 2002. Obviously, listening was my greatest challenge. Learning to listen to God was paramount in my life, and that is where God did his greatest work. Peterson (2007) digs in deep when he begins to cause one to examine themselves in what he/she is doing to others. The Guiding difficult group discussions was a very eye-opening tool for me (Petersen, 2007, p. 190). He talks about not fully hearing others out before we are on the attack, as well as not being able to hear correctly, and repeat back what was ally being said. This is what happens during bible study discussions and womens groups. UT these techniques into practice because I truly want to see women healed, and become healers themselves. Listening is also important in evangelism ministry. We are always quick to throw our religious beliefs on someone who has not heard the good news of Jesus Christ. We must listen and find out why they feel a certain way (Petersen, 2007) before we attack them, and drag them kicking and screaming into the body of Christ. My husband and I are both in ministry and have spent nettles hours arguing with Jehovah Witnesses, Muslims, and unbelievers.