The Final Frontier

The human race has accomplished some pretty amazing things. We’ve landed on the moon and more recently have collaborated on a universal space station that is orbiting the planet with residents 365 days a year coming and going. Just imagine that! Sometimes our intelligence gets too big, though—like when we try to extract oil from a mile below the surface of the ocean. Our humility sinks as our intellect gets “too full of itself” and we don’t consider all the possibilities … and end up causing a Gulf of Mexico-like catastrophe.

How about physical challenges like overcoming a serious disease or raising millions for the poor? Yes, indeed, the human race is a powerful force. However, I feel there is a final frontier that we are collectively working hard to overcome and it’s communication. I’m not talking between countries—I’m talking between people. We simply do not understand where people are coming from! It becomes a “she said, he said” thing that we struggle with each day.

Listening is the key, not speaking. We often think, “How else could I have said that?” What‘s more to the point, though, is making sure our message has been understood by politely stating something to the effect of “If you could, please confirm what I said so I know I communicated clearly.” Then stop talking. Don’t interrupt and listen. Ask questions if you need to. I struggle with this every day, just like so many of you. Only through listening can compassion and understanding grow. I’m practicing it every day, especially with my kids. I need to stop talking and start listening.

Joe Kiedinger

ACTION PLAN: Spend some one-on-one time with your kids today and ask them this question: What are 3 things I could start doing right now to be a better parent for you. Then LISTEN!