Dianne OlveraDr. Dianne Olvera was married to a diplomat, and they both worked at the United States Embassy in Argentina and Mexico. They were in Argentina when the country was engulfed in a climate of fear as the government transformed into a military dictatorshp under Jorge Rafael Videla. The regime conducted what it referred to as the "Dirty War," during which anyone suspected of opposing it could vanish without a trace. Communication was cautious, and life was filled with fear and uncertainty. Living and working in Argentina during that time shaped her understanding of "the language of power," fear, and a deeper appreciation for human dignity.After completing their duty in Argentina, they were assigned to Mexico to fulfill their diplomatic responsibilities under President José López Portillo. Initially, things seemed more stable than they had been in Argentina, but by the early 1980s, everything changed as oil prices collapsed and Mexico fell into a deep financial crisis. Economic uncertainty created significant tension, and individuals seeking asylum in the United States approached them. Life was challenging under these circumstances, and they had to learn to navigate their interactions with others in a way that upheld their dignity and honored the values of the United States, even while facing unsafe and uncomfortable situations. Inspired by these experiences, upon her return to the United States, she sought to understand the importance of language in our lives and dedicated the next twelve years in graduate school at the University of Arizona to exploring all aspects of interpersonal communication. She realized that we all possess inherent power and must learn to harness it. Thus, the title of her book reflects diagnostic and diplomatic secrets: "The Power of Connection: Understanding Individual Differences to Uplift and Empower" will open new doors that will positively change our interpersonal interactions. Read More Read Less