Communication

To start, communication is something that we use everyday. I wanted to discuss the role communication has within the family. There is a quote by President Ezra Taft Benson and it says, "Your most important friendships should be with your own brothers and sisters and with your father and mother. Love your family. Be loyal to them. Have a genuine concern for your brothers and sisters. Help carry their load so you can say, like the lyrics of the song, 'He ain't heavy; he's my brother'." I love this quote because it helps us understand that our relationships within the family are very important. We should not take lightly the relationships we have with others. I heard once from someone that, “we should never treat any relationship as temporary.” This is something I will always remember. Every since I heard this phrase, I have never forgotten it because I know that this is so true. In general, even though you meet certain people that you might not like or don’t know as well it is important that you seek to get to know that person. They may need you and you may need them. In my own life, I know that communicating with those in my family has improved my life.

From my family relations class, I learned that there are three types of communication, which are; our words, our tone, and our non-verbal communication. Each aspect consists of a percentage which all add up to 100%. When we communicate, we use 14% words, 35% tone, and 51% non-verbal communication. I thought this is interesting because we use non-verbal communication the most. Our body language when we communicate is a key element to how we communicate. Our body language can send negative or positive vibes when we are conversing with one another. In my opinion, this is where we may see problems that may arise as we communicate. Understanding the roles of tone and non-verbal communication in our own family communication can help improve the quality of our relationships. Throughout my life, I have always heard that “communication is key”. And whoever started saying this, it IS key to the quality of our relationships.

I also learned from my class that there are five secrets in communicating. The first secret is the disarming technique or the kernel or truth, the second one is to express empathy, and the third is to inquire or talk more. The first 3 secrets all fall under the word empathy. The fourth secret falls under assertiveness which we recognize when, how we feel/felt, why, and the “I would like”. For example, I would like hope. The fifth secret falls under respect which it to express genuine/authentic admiration. As we understand and apply these five secrets in our communication with others we can be able to effectively communicate. What are some ways you improve communication with others and especially with those in your family?

We can apply these principles within our relationships in the family. I know that those of you may not have the greatest relationships with those in your family but I know that when you try and do your best to become closer to them it will bless your life. Life is too short to not try and communicate with those that you will always love. From my experience, I know that communication is something that I will always struggle with but as I continue to practice and do my part it will benefit not only myself but those that I contact with in my family. It is important that we strive to think of others in our family and how we can improve the relationships we have with them.