Missing Half

Way back around 400 BC, Plato discussed how people pine for another that complements them. He referred to this in "The Symposium" as one searching for their missing half. (I thank author Sam Kean for this summary.) All these many years later, I do not think this has changed one bit. When he observed this, Plato was referring to fulfillment in the area of romance. While that certainly applies today, I think this search is easily applicable in other areas of life.  For instance, we see it in partnerships, alliances that last the duration of a specific circumstance such as a problem or a political campaign, or in communication.

In conversation one strives to be understood and gain acceptance. They offer an opinion in the hope others will be receptive to it and, better yet, agree with it. Such an act, even in such a commonplace occurrence, the search for completion is prevalent. There are few things that give any of us greater satisfaction than seeing those around nod their heads in agreement as we speak and share our thoughts. It reinforces our sense of worth, gives us a sense of validation, and, more to the point, completes an attempt to piece together two fundamental parts: outreach and acceptance. This represents one finding a missing half.

Politicians find that missing half when people vote for them. Business men and women find that missing half when folks buy their products. And children find that missing half when they seek a hug from Mom or Dad and get it. In all our conversations about communication, the central theme is quests to locate one's missing half. When we succeed, we strive to build on it. When we do not, the challenge falls to either look elsewhere or identify different strategies. As I write this, I am hungry. Soon I hope to find my missing half in the refrigerator. When it comes to an area just as basic - communication - the search is no less ongoing and important.