Tapestry of Faith: Principled Commitment: An Adult Program on Building Strong Relationships

Activity 3: Treat Me With Dignity

Activity time: 30 minutes

Materials for Activity

  • Newsprint
  • Markers
  • Easel
  • Newsprint sheet with prepared questions (see Preparation)
  • Low-stick masking tape
  • Clock, watch, or timer
  • Bell or chime

Preparation for Activity

  • Write the following questions on a sheet of newsprint:
    • Were there any surprises in what you shared?
    • What are the common characteristics of the types of behavior that make you feel your dignity is honored?
    • What can you take from this discussion to enhance mutual dignity in your relationship?

Description of Activity

Introduce the activity by emphasizing the connection between a feeling of dignity in a relationship and our actions within a relationship. Then ask:

  • In what ways do we show our partners that they have worth and dignity?

Invite participants to respond by sharing examples of behaviors that show respect for others. List responses on the blank newsprint. Keep the brainstorm brisk and under five minutes in duration. Examples might include:

  • Taking someone's words and feelings seriously
  • Holding the door for someone
  • Kissing a partner hello or goodbye
  • Keeping one's word
  • Saying please and thank you
  • Not answering a cell phone call during a conversation
  • Remembering special occasions

Invite participants to pair up with their partners. Explain the next part of the activity with these or similar words:

Now you will take turns as speakers and listeners. The listener's role is to listen without comment. The speaker will have five minutes to respond to this question: Thinking about your relationship, when have you felt especially honored and respected by your partner? Share specific incidents, attitudes, or habits that you see as contributing to a feeling of dignity in the relationship.

After five minutes, ring the bell or chime and ask the partners to switch roles. While they continue sharing, post the sheet of questions that you prepared before the workshop.

After another five minutes, ring the bell or chime again. Invite partners to spend five minutes in a two-way discussion on the questions that you posted:

  • Were there any surprises in what you shared?
  • What are the common characteristics of the types of behavior that make you feel your dignity is honored?
  • What can you take from this discussion to enhance mutual dignity in your relationship?

After five minutes, reassemble the large group. Ask:

  • Who was surprised by the examples that your partner shared with you?
  • Did your discussions focus on the little things - everyday actions and attitudes - or on special events, like vacations or birthday parties? (Point out that both are ways of showing respect and honor.)
  • How can we enhance a sense of mutual dignity in our relationships?