The Fox and the Stork

One thing that stood out to me this past week is communication.  Communication is essentially to withhold any sort of relationship.  Not just any communication but effective and respectful communication.

The definition of communication from the Marriam-Webster Diction is, " a process by which information is exchanged between individuals through a common system of symbols, signs, or behavior."

I think this Aesop's explains the damage miscommunication can cause:

At one time the Fox and the Stork were on visiting terms and seemed very good friends. So the Fox invited the Stork to dinner, and for a joke put nothing before her but some soup in a very shallow dish. This the Fox could easily lap up, but the Stork could only wet the end of her long bill in it, and left the meal as hungry as when she began.
“I am sorry,” said the Fox, “the soup is not to your liking.”
“Pray do not apologize,” said the Stork. “I hope you will return this visit, and come and dine with me soon.”
So a day was appointed when the Fox should visit the Stork; but when they were seated at table all that was for their dinner was contained in a very long-necked jar with a narrow mouth, in which the Fox could not insert his snout, so all he could manage to do was to lick the inside of the jar.
“I will not apologize for the dinner,” said the Stork, “One bad turn deserves another.”

Many times we think we are completely justified in our ways and that others have the same needs and desires that we do or that they should be understood. But because the Fox and Stork failed to communicate their preferences, they will not likely be friends, or really ever talk to each other again.  Especially since the Stork had the attitude of "an eye for an eye."

When this happens in any sort of relationship the results can be very damaging.  The best way to communicate is to listen.  Not just pretend like you're listening, for to really listen, and respond with empathy.  You don't have to agree, but understanding the others position can lead to compromise.  It is not the easiest thing to accomplish, but an accomplished pianist doesn't give up on a song just because it is difficult.  They keep practicing.  That's how a person becomes better at communication, through practice and practice makes permanent.