Communication and Conversation
It is not what we learn in conversation that enriches us. It is the elation that comes of swift contact with tingling currents of thought. – Agnes Repplier
We have so many ways to communicate these days. In one week, I was able to see video of a friend pulling out of the train station in San Antonio within seconds and photos from a friend’s trip while he was overseas. Our ability to transmit our thoughts to large numbers of people at one time is immediate. But is it communication?
Communication really has four components – sender, message, receiver, feedback. Without the last two elements, you might as well be that proverbial tree in the forest that falls when there is no one there to hear it. You could argue that you are making a sound, but without a receiver, and without feedback, you are not communicating.
How long has it been since you sat with a group of people and really communicated? I was blessed to spend Thanksgiving in such circumstances and it reminded me of how rare those occasions are. No one was texting or answering phone calls. Everyone was paying attention to and participating in the discussion around the table. The discussion was lively, and although there were differing viewpoints, the conversation stayed agreeable. It was a joy and made the meal even more delightful.
This holiday season, find some time to put the phone down. Pay attention to your coworkers, your friends, and your family. Enjoy each other’s company. Actively listen when someone is talking to you. Stay engaged in the real life of personal interaction.
Then share on Facebook or Tweet what happened. <grin>
Happy Holidays!
Wanted to make sure you knew you were communicating by providing “feedback!” Great reminders. Unless I’m expecting to be called on to save someone’s life, my phone stays out of my meetings. Happy Holidays!
Thank, Cheryl! How exciting to get a comment on my blog that isn’t spam! I appreciate it! Hope your holidays are super and magical!