I try to maintain a dialogue by sticking to the facts of the disputed issue as closely as I can.   It is possible for facts to be analyzed, disputed or agreed upon without ego problems entering in and destroying the dialogue. What I try to do in introducing an idea that may not be accepted is to say "In my personal experience I have found.......". This may not always work if I am going to be attacked for my position regardless.

I think there has to be an element of trust between the people who are engaging in this kind of dialogue. I try to find some area of agreement without having to agree on everything.

I can agree that someone's personal experience might be different from my own. I can also keep a questioning mind about an issue that I might feel sure about. There is always a possibility that I could be wrong about something. I try to look for answers rather than try to win an argument. It's pointless to try to win because this is not convincing.

I think it's possible to get along without having to go along.

Frank Hamilton