Road congestion is similar. In the beginning, we have slow progress, followed at times by stoppage and loss of time and harm. Wisdom is to prevent blockage or fix problems as soon as possible. Isn't this the wisdom when communication between persons is not working correctly.
Between persons when we have an impasse, we look for ways to communicate: finding ways to understand one another. What is the reason for the breakdown in communication? Persons in positions of authority are at times obstacles to the free flow of ideas and communication: found in political societies, communities, religious societies and in families.
Authoritarianism on the part of the person on the top is often the reason for the lack of communication. What has to happen is the one on top has to stop being bossy. How does the one on top stop being bossy? We who are Christians have Jesus as our example of the ideal communicator.
What enabled him to be such an example? He was willing to sit down and eat with anybody. The columnist mentions two qualities that are necessary for communication to happen: to listen and be open to what the other one is saying. Jesus was always opened to prompting of the Spirit.
In our society, communities, parishes and families when we have problems with communication we need to work on hearing and being open. Those in positions of authority should be less captivated by their authority and bossy ways. When we listen to God's voice and the voices of others, the results will be communication.
