I received an email from xh stating his willingness to still mediate, except now he is willing to rearrange his schedule so he is available any day. Before he was only available on Saturday morning. He added that I didn't scare him with my accusations and that they're all false. Denial.
I would have been agreeable until I read the string of emails between him and the mediator. He wanted the mediator to contact me to basically check out my state of mind and determine my willingness to negotiate. The mediator replied saying he wouldn't do that. Also, xh wanted to quickly schedule a date and said he wouldn't vacate the settlement conference unless we had a "successful mediation."
This just showed me that he excepts to settle this quickly, in one session, and that will only happen if I give him what he wants. There has been no give and take with this man. Clearly he is not committed to the mediation process. It takes time and the right attitude.
I really didn't know how to respond, but decided to just pose the question "What is it that you think we have to mediate?" Not the best choice of words, but simple with him is best. I want to know what the issues are as he sees them.
