William Ury is one of my heroes. He co-wrote, with Roger Fisher, what is still the best book on negotiation, Getting to Yes. And he has been negotiating in tough spots around the world for nearly 4 decades, from Russia to the Middle East, from Africa to Asia, and from the boardroom to the shop floor. When there seem to be only 2 sides to an argument, and they are deeply opposed, Ury is dedicated to finding a third way. Most recently, he has helped started a grass-roots movement to bring peace to the Middle East, by walking in ‘Abraham’s path’, and finding the common story that just might bring all those warring peoples together. He talks about this quest in the video clip below.
He’s not a charismatic speaker, but he’s a thoughtful, enlightening, competent one. And his story — and cause — is certainly inspirational. His opening anecdote, about 17 camels and 3 brothers, is one that everyone who will ever get involved in any kind of negotiation should know.
As such, he’s a fitting speaker to round out this series on inspirational speakers and stories. With thanks to Patrick Burns for sending me the link to this video. Enjoy!
Small world. I was just introduced to Mr. Ury and his project, Abraham’s Path, earlier this week. I had read his book years ago; loved it then. And I was glad to hear he was involved in even more inspiring work.
Thanks for sharing this.
All the best.
“How Linette Got Her Scream Back,” one woman’s story of what she almost lost and how she followed her dreams. Please read it at http://wp.me/pC3Xj-np