Hi again ris, just wanted to add - I'm not sure if I'm describing this well; I guess the important thing is that when you're trying to validate, think more about acknowledging the way they're feeling (eg - I'm so sorry to hear you feel that way...), than trying to analyze what they're thinking. Plus, asking him those open ended questions will help keep him talking. Just the sheer act of him being able to talk while you're listening will help make him feel validated. The more I think about it, the more I'd recommend that 'Messages' book. It's very enlightening.
I cannot complain for not receiving from others, that which I've never asked them for.
