When was the last time you sat face to face with someone, with no distractions and actually had a conversation? No mobile phone, no tablet or laptop. Television and radios off. Texting has replaced telephone calls, and when you have the rare opportunity to speak to someone, either in person or via telephone they are likely focusing on something along with you.
A 2012 survey identified communication problems as the #1 cause of divorce and marital discord. Many marriage counselors recommend that couple sit face to face every day and and speak to one another. Imagine that? A counselor having to tell a married couple to sit and talk. This isn't a new reality, mobile phones have replaced televisions and newspapers. Think about yourself as a child, did you father or mother sit and talk to you, giving you their undivided attention? It's not something we do naturally.
So try it. The next time you have the opportunity to speak with someone, turn off all of your electronics. Fold your newspaper and put it away. Listen to them and don't interrupt them, look them in the eye. Ask them questions and be engaged. When they ask you questions, don't think about the best answer, give them the truth, your sincere thoughts. Let them learn about you and come to understand who you are. Your relationship will grow in ways you never dreamed.
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