Communication is difficult

It is so easy to be misunderstood, even easier to misunderstand. Much of what we try to share with others is inadequate. We often resort to metaphor and say or write phrases starting with "it's like ...".

Using metaphor, or language for that matter, assures that there will be a good chance for misunderstanding or no understanding at all, in most of our attempts to communicate - especially when we're talking about complex or emotionally charged subjects. My understanding of an emotional word or phrase will never be exactly the same as yours. That's why it's important to be a good listener. Try to understand what someone really means, do not assume that your interpretation of a word or phrase will be the same as the one you are listening to. Ask for elaboration, clarification, examples, etc.

Try to consider the background, culture and conditioning that someone brings to a converstion or writing.

Everyone has a blog

Why not me? I have resisted even thinking about a Blog, but my son (the Physics grad student) has persuaded me by complimenting me. He suggests that I have something to share and things worth writing down. We'll see ...