By: Tess Worrell
Julie emerged from the woods–beaming. In her hands, a basket overflowing with mushrooms. “I love this time of year!” she exclaimed. “You go out into the woods–not sure what you’ll find, if anything. At first it’s just trees, underbrush, and shadows. Then, you spot one! Then, another. Pretty soon, everywhere you look–mushrooms! My fall treasure hunt.”
Many entering mediation see only shadow. The underbrush of legal and emotional issues tangles and trips them as they try to find their way. They can’t spot anything good.
Then. . .
The couple finds resolution on one issue. It may be as small as defining how to celebrate Christmas to protect the special bonds of both parents with the children–but it’s a little treasure. Then, they create a summer schedule. Then, the house proceeds. Pretty soon agreement builds on agreement molding a plan for moving forward. A plan for stability. A plan that sheds light on a clear path to the next stage of life.
The resolution of conflicts in mediation may, at first, seem as elusive as mushrooms hiding in the underbrush. But, solutions are there. As couples diligently seek areas of agreement–they find the treasure of creating a healthier family.