The State of Conversation

Recently, I was reading an article AARP's monthly magazine (Yes, I am old enough to receive that publication) about the state of conversations in our society. Generally, the author expressed concern at how the rise of such social media outlets as emails, twittering and blackberries and the in-hurry lifestyle of so many people have contributed to an overall deteriation in the quality of conversations that people have as well as in people's ability to converse in ways they used to. In short, it was suggested, we do not seem to talk as well as we used to. I tend to agree with the premise of the article though only in part. There is no question, for instance, that the various forms of social media we now know have contributed significantly to the state of communication. This includes verbal interaction between people. Further, as lifestyles do influence so much of what we do and how we do it, the fact that so many people seem to be juggling multiple balls in the air on any given day makes taking time to sit down and converse with others in a meaningful way much more of a challenge.

Having said that, however, I think people can and do talk effectively with each other - when they have and take the time. But finding the time is not always easy to do. And then there is the matter of being in a situation where conversation is welcome. For most of us to do anything where we feel safe and comfortable and free to not be at our best requires effective communication. As it is with the tango, there must be two to make it happen; a sender and receiver for communication to take wing. Specific to conversation, there must be at least two committed to helping make a shared understanding or a connection take place. Thus, face-to-face conversation as we know it remains alive. In today's frenetic world, however, there is much that competes with it. The result is we all have to work harder to make it happen.

All of us are communicators even if we do not have that label in our various job titles or job responsibilities. So, if we as members of society still value conversations, then we must continue to dedicate or commit ourselves to making sure they continue to happen as well as to playing an active part in ensuring their quality remains as high as possible. I know. I know. All of us already have enough on our plates as it is. Paying our bills. Being nice to others. Trying to be responsible citizens. The list goes on and on. Does helping keep conversations alive and well have to added to that endless list? Without question, the answer is "yes." And, just for the record, it should be at the top.