As a person who deals a lot with language, I know the power of words. I have been trained to pick up tone, infer both the literal and implied meanings, and often, I will scan for reasons why particular words are used within a certain context.
We use language everyday.
By far then, what words we use, how we use , when and where we use, and why we use them...can be attributed to why humans get into conflicts with each other. Communication breaks down when we fail to understand each other.
Unlike machines or computers which are programmed to decipher specific codes, Man's ability to comprehend, translate and interpret what he sees, hears, feels or reads is far more diverse and superior. Yet, this gift is both a boon and a bane.
We know that there is already a difference when we say something face-to-face and when we write something down in print. Then we each make inferences depending on our experiences, cultural perspectives, our biasness, level of maturity and self-awareness.
Things have become far more complex with the age of IMs. Asynchronous communication - with its shortforms, stylised impersonal lingo and going against all grammatical conventions - gives very little for us to really understand what the other person is really saying. We then make our own assumptions which sadly, may not be the real intention of the sender of such messages.
We 'kill' words...and yet, we forget that words can kill. Over time, human relationships get killed in the process too.
I think I need to remind myself to go back to the basics.
We humans as social beings, and we had started off with actions, gestures and non-verbal cues...haha. I am not advocating the 'touchy-feely-thingy'. All I am saying is this:
Seek to clarify and be understood.
Say what you mean as simply as you can.
Open all channels of communication.
Listen with both your heart and mind.
To AB...
I hope you understand now.
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