Defacto Partnerships

It is a universal fear that we do not wish to make ourselves look less than we are. This is particularly true when it comes to communicating with others. As a teacher, I see this concern in every class. A question is raised and students who I know to be thoughtful and insightful  look down or away in the hope they will not be called upon. Perhaps they are not sure how best to articulate their thoughts. Or maybe they are afraid what they have to say might appear silly or immature. I completely understand their concern. Any time we share a thought we risk it being judged negatively by others. Such a reaction is not easy to endure for any of us. 


The reality, however, is that communication is most effective when people are active participants in the process. For there to be a meaningful exchange or ongoing dialog, people need to speak out and take the chance of being criticized. If this does not happen, then the only form of communication remaining is a one-way street where you have folks talking at rather than with each other. Such a flow, at best, is limited and ultimately does more to curtail communication than foster it. This is why it is important that all who do participate in any kind of  exchange do their best to encourage input. Sure, that input may be shall we say, less than stellar, but without it, there is little chance for meaningful communication to occur.


When one enters into an exchange with another, then they have a defacto partnership with that "audience" to do all they can to help make the interaction effective. This means letting the other person know their feedback, input and/or contribution is both welcomed and needed. What this means, then, is in such a scenario we are not only responsible for doing our part in creating a meaningful exchange, but also helping our "partner" fulfill their role as well. Is this easy to do? Not always. But it does help break down barriers and potentially as well as ultimately paves the way to greater understanding.