A Meaningful Conversation...

Have a conversation with someone you love. Don't select a topic. Don't set an agenda. Don't think about the course of the discussion ahead of time. Don't try to "make a point or "set them straight." Don't talk down to them, at them, or about yourself. Sit down with someone and look them in the eye. Talk to them about everything, anything, or nothing at all. The state of their world, their dreams for their life and future, or an observation of the mundane in their day. They may surprise you with how they see their situation, their vivid imagination, or their wonderful sense of the absurd.

If you have a conversation with your children you will strengthen your bond with them. You will build mutual trust and respect. You will get a glimpse of their perspective and they will get a glimpse of yours. This fosters empathy and compassion. Younger children, even infants, will increase their vocabulary, grasp of context, and deeper meanings beyond just simple labels (bottle, dog, bath, etc...). Older children will be challenged to speak candidly with an adult in a safe environment, building their confidence and their conversational techniques. You may be surprised by what you learn about your children, their abilities, and their opinions. With adult children, you may discover a new friendship and sense of pride in someone you've always known but not necessarily understood.

If you have a conversation with your parents you may find the person behind the label of "Mom" or "Dad." These are the people who suffer your judgement, condescension, and exasperation. These are also the people who want more for you than they want for themselves. However many imperfections or transgressions you can count against them, they love you the best that they know how. You may discover that you have never really seen the person in front of you, their dreams, their sacrifices, their pain, their problems, their humor, or their worth.

Couples can remember why they stayed up all night talking when they first met. Friends can share more than jokes. Neighbors can share more than fences. Family members can share more than blood. We are a social species, defining ourselves by our relationships to others. Weave the tapestry of your life with the most fulfilling relationships you can and you will be able to wrap yourself in their warmth and love to the end of your days.