Jaye Marie and Anita Dawes

Post copyright by Doris McCraw

I try to practice what I call empathic communication. When I am in a conversation with someone, it is about listening not only to their words, but the feelings behind what they are saying. Then I work to remember what they said to have a point of communication with them in the future.

As I’ve spoken of before, there was major damage to homes in my neighborhood. The residents have been unable to resolve their issues with the water district, county and insurance. No one is taking any responsibility for their part in the event. I spoke with a young man who lives down the street while he raked leaves for me. He said he wasn’t allowed to go downstairs due to asthma and the possibility of mold due to water damage. He then said his mother went down there to do the laundry. You…