CommUnicAtion Empowers
Quality is not an act; it’s a habit. It's not something we just strive for; we live by this principle every day.
Effective communication can enhance productivity, intensify customer and employee satisfaction, foster new business deals, and facilitate significant cost savings. On the other hand, poor communication can negatively impact your brand’s reputation, employee engagement, and the bottom line. However, one core problem is achieving operational excellence: not everyone is on an equal playing field when communicating effectively. In any organization, employees have varying educational backgrounds, primary languages, learning styles, language proficiencies, and now, degrees of generative AI literacy. If your employees lack the necessary skills or tools to communicate effectively, poor communication can quickly create an invisible drag on your business performance. Creativity is an integral element in professional communication and involves using innovative and engaging methods to convey messages, fostering memorable experiences, and building stronger relationships with stakeholders, both internally and externally.
Business and corporate communication is an intricate process that encompasses a myriad of factors influencing how messages are conveyed and received within organizations. From formal channels, such as emails and reports, to informal interactions like team meetings and collaborative platforms, effective communication requires a careful balancing act. It involves not only the clarity of language but also an acute awareness of the audience, cultural nuances, and the context in which the communication occurs. Misunderstandings can arise quickly if attention is not paid to these elements, underscoring the complexity involved in ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned and informed.
Moreover, as business entities become increasingly globalized, the challenges associated with communication multiply. Diverse teams bring valuable perspectives but also varied communication styles that can lead to confusion if not managed thoughtfully. Factors such as time zone differences, language barriers, and varying degrees of technological proficiency all play a role in shaping the communication landscape. Companies must develop robust strategies that foster clear, inclusive communication and encourage an open dialogue. Ultimately, recognizing and navigating the complexities of business communication is essential for fostering relationships, enhancing collaboration, and driving organizational success.
Communication is the process of conveying information, thoughts, and feelings between individuals, encompassing verbal, nonverbal, written, and visual forms, all aimed at creating shared understanding. It is the purposeful exchange of information, ideas, and feelings between individuals, encompassing verbal, nonverbal, written, and visual forms, all aimed at creating a shared understanding.
A more comprehensive understanding of communication refers to the sharing of information, ideas, and feelings, typically aimed at mutual understanding. In this way, you must consider the sender, the recipient, and the transaction. Simply put, the sender is the person sharing the message, the recipient is the person receiving and interpreting the message, and the transaction is the way that the message is delivered and the factors that influence the context and environment of the communication.
Communication is complex. It involves more than just what you say and takes many forms. Our work life is consumed by communication; there is no escaping it. Whether drafting emails and documents, taking meetings by phone, Zoom, and in person, or managing a constant stream of Slack notifications, we’re all moving business forward through communication. Good business communication is a strategic imperative to fuel success in today’s competitive landscape.
Introduction
Communication Complexity
"The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place." George Bernard Shaw.
Communication complexity emerges from the intricate process of encoding and decoding meaning across multiple channels simultaneously. When individuals communicate, they must translate their internal thoughts, emotions, and intentions into symbols—whether words, gestures, or visual cues—that another person must then interpret through their unique lens of experience, knowledge, and cultural background. This translation process is inherently imperfect because no two people share identical frames of reference, and the meaning we intend to convey may differ significantly from what others understand. The challenge intensifies when considering that communication operates on multiple levels concurrently: verbal content, tone of voice, facial expressions, body language, timing, and contextual factors all contribute layers of meaning that can reinforce, contradict, or modify the primary message being transmitted.
The complexity deepens through the influence of psychological and environmental filters that shape both message delivery and reception. Each participant brings their emotional state, past experiences, cultural values, education level, and personal biases to every interaction, creating a unique interpretive framework that influences how messages are both sent and received. Power dynamics, social hierarchies, physical environments, and external distractions further complicate the communication process by adding contextual pressure that can alter meaning or create barriers to understanding. Additionally, the feedback loops inherent in communication create a dynamic, constantly shifting process where individuals simultaneously process incoming information while formulating responses, leading to real-time adjustments that can either clarify or further complicate the intended message.
The Illusion of Understanding:
It's easy to assume someone understands what you've said, even if they don't, according to a quote by George Bernard Shaw.
Individual Differences:
People communicate differently, with varying styles and preferences, making it difficult to ensure everyone understands the same message.
Context Matters:
Communication can be affected by the situation, including the environment, making it difficult to ensure everyone understands the same message: emotions and relationships between individuals.
Nonverbal Communication:
Tone of voice, body language, and facial expressions all contribute to the overall meaning of a message, and misinterpretations can occur easily.
Technical and specialized language:
Workplaces often use jargon and technical terms that may not be understood by everyone, creating communication barriers.
Emotional Intelligence:
Understanding and managing emotions is crucial for effective communication, especially in complex workplace situations.
Why Honest Communication Matters
Honest communication is built on truth and integrity and upon respect of the one for the other. Benjamin E. Mays
Cultivating a culture of honesty requires conscious, sustained effort beginning with leadership modeling transparency and admitting mistakes while creating safe spaces for employee expression without fear of repercussions. Organizations must invest in training programs that teach effective communication skills, including active listening, assertive communication, and conflict resolution techniques that emphasize honesty's importance. Overcoming barriers to honest communication involves addressing fear of judgment, potential conflict, and perceived power imbalances by creating psychological safety where individuals feel comfortable taking risks and sharing perspectives, supported by clear communication channels such as regular meetings, feedback sessions, and anonymous reporting mechanisms that ensure all voices are heard and concerns are addressed promptly.
Honest communication in the workplace serves as the foundation for building trust, fostering collaboration, and creating an environment where employees feel valued and respected. When team members communicate transparently about challenges, expectations, and feedback, it eliminates ambiguity and reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings that can derail projects or damage relationships. This openness encourages employees to share innovative ideas without fear of judgment, admit mistakes before they escalate into larger problems, and seek help when needed. Organizations that prioritize honest communication often see improved problem-solving capabilities, as teams can address issues directly rather than allowing them to fester beneath the surface.
Building Trust and Strengthening relationships
Honest communication serves as the foundation for building trust and strengthening relationships in both personal and professional contexts. When individuals consistently convey accurate information and express thoughts authentically, they establish credibility that fosters security and encourages others to open up and share their perspectives. In personal relationships, honesty enables vulnerability and deeper emotional connections, while in professional settings, employees who trust their leaders demonstrate higher engagement, motivation, and commitment to organizational goals. Transparency in workplace communication, particularly regarding company performance and challenges, empowers employees to feel valued and informed, fostering collective ownership and proactive problem-solving while preventing cynicism and declining morale. Honest communication promotes clarity and prevents misunderstandings by expressing ideas and concerns directly and unambiguously, reducing the likelihood of misinterpretations in complex environments with multiple stakeholders. This clarity ensures everyone understands expectations, timelines, and responsibilities, significantly reducing conflicts and delays while creating psychological safety that empowers employees to take calculated risks and contribute authentically. The culture of openness leads to more accurate project timelines, realistic goal-setting, and better decision-making based on complete information, while preventing workplace gossip and speculation through clear, direct communication about company developments and expectations.
Building Trust Through Effective Communication
"The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place." George Bernard Shaw.
Open communication of feelings helps build trust and reduce misunderstandings by sharing thoughts and experiences honestly. Active listening shows respect for others' feelings, fostering empathy and trust. Authentic emotional expression creates genuine connections, while a safe environment encourages sharing vulnerabilities. Recognizing different communication styles is important, as is being present and mindful during interactions. Demonstrating empathy and compassion supports the emotional state of others, and using physical and verbal affection strengthens closeness. Learning from each other’s perspectives enhances understanding. Authenticity encourages openness, while empathy helps relate to others' experiences. Nonverbal cues, such as body language and eye contact, enhance emotional communication. Sharing personal stories fosters intimacy and deeper connections. Positive reinforcement builds confidence and appreciation. Identifying shared goals and values creates unity, enhancing communication skills and emotional connections in both personal and professional settings. Embracing these communication strategies can significantly enhance personal and professional relationships.
Effective communication hinges on several key principles. Firstly, clarity is essential; use straightforward language and avoid jargon unless necessary. Active listening involves fully focusing on the speaker, demonstrating understanding through acknowledgment, and asking clarifying questions when needed. Nonverbal communication should be synchronized with verbal messages, paying attention to body language and eye contact. Additionally, adjusting tone to fit the context while remaining calm and respectful is vital, as is recognizing emotional undertones in conversations. Constructive feedback is important for improving communication and facilitating clarification of misunderstandings. Empathy and respect towards others' perspectives and boundaries enhance interactions, along with selecting the appropriate medium for the message based on urgency and context. Understand the purpose of your communication and tailor it to your audience's needs. Lastly, timing is crucial; deliver messages promptly and allow time for discussion while communicating confidently without aggression.
Effective communication is essential for building trust and fostering emotional connections. Strategies such as open communication, active listening, and authentic emotional expression contribute significantly to creating a safe environment. Recognizing individual communication styles and being mindful of nonverbal cues enhances interactions, while empathy and compassion support the emotional states of others. Authenticity and vulnerability play crucial roles in establishing intimacy and strengthening relationships. In addition to these strategies, physical and verbal affection can enhance emotional closeness. Positive reinforcement of contributions instills confidence, while identifying shared goals and values fosters unity. By implementing these principles, individuals can improve their communication skills and deepen their connections with others in both personal and professional settings.
Creative Communication is Powerful
Creative communication changes ordinary messages into engaging ones, making them more memorable and ensuring the audience grasps the essential information.
Creative communication possesses transformative power because it breaks through the noise and monotony of conventional messaging to capture attention and create lasting impact. In a world saturated with information, creative approaches help messages stand out by engaging multiple senses, emotions, and cognitive processes simultaneously. When communicators use storytelling, vivid imagery, unexpected analogies, or innovative formats, they activate different areas of the brain and create memorable experiences that stick with audiences long after the interaction ends. This enhanced memorability translates into real influence, as people are more likely to act on messages that have emotionally resonated with them or sparked their imagination. Creative communication also demonstrates respect for the audience by investing extra effort to make information engaging and accessible, which builds credibility and strengthens the communicator's influence.
Creativity is crucial in business communication, as it enables businesses to communicate effectively, foster innovation, and differentiate themselves from competitors. By incorporating creative approaches, businesses can engage audiences, improve employee morale, and achieve better outcomes. Creative communicators can paint vivid pictures of desired futures
Creativity plays a crucial role in enhancing business communication by engaging stakeholders effectively and improving employee morale. By crafting compelling narratives and innovative messages, businesses can connect with employees, customers, and investors on a deeper level. Creative communication not only boosts employee loyalty and productivity but also helps organizations differentiate themselves from competitors in a saturated market. This approach encourages collaboration and sparks innovative ideas, leading to improved products and services.
Examples of creative communication include dynamic branding and advertising strategies that utilize visuals and storytelling, collaborative brainstorming for product development, and engaging internal communications to celebrate achievements. Additionally, creative approaches in public relations can effectively manage perceptions during crises, while personalized customer service interactions foster loyalty. Ultimately, businesses that prioritize creativity in their communication strategies drive growth, strengthen connections, and achieve their objectives.
The Illusion Of Communication
“The biggest problem with communication is the illusion that it has been accomplished.” George Bernard Shaw
Recognizing and addressing the illusion of communication requires deliberate strategies that prioritize verification and mutual understanding over mere information exchange. Effective communicators actively seek feedback, ask clarifying questions, and paraphrase what they've heard to ensure alignment. They acknowledge that communication is a two-way process requiring ongoing calibration rather than a simple transmission of data from sender to receiver. Organizations and individuals who master this awareness develop stronger relationships, reduce conflicts, and achieve better outcomes by building redundancy and confirmation mechanisms into their communication processes. This might involve follow-up emails summarizing key points, regular check-ins to assess understanding, or creating environments where questions and clarifications are welcomed rather than seen as signs of confusion or incompetence.
The modern communication landscape has intensified this illusion through the proliferation of digital channels that strip away crucial contextual cues while creating a false sense of connection and clarity. Email, text messages, and instant communication platforms encourage rapid exchanges that prioritize speed over precision, often leaving critical nuances lost in translation. Breaking through this illusion requires a fundamental shift in approach, emphasizing active listening, frequent confirmation of understanding, and the recognition that effective communication is measured not by what is said, but by what is genuinely understood and retained. Organizations and individuals who acknowledge this challenge invest in feedback mechanisms, encourage questions, and create cultures where clarification is valued over assumed comprehension, ultimately building stronger relationships and achieving more successful outcomes through authentic understanding rather than the mere appearance of communication.
Several psychological and social factors contribute to this communication mirage, including the curse of knowledge, where experts struggle to remember what it's like not to know their subject matter, and confirmation bias, where listeners hear what they expect rather than what is actually being said. Cultural differences, generational gaps, and professional jargon further complicate the landscape, creating multiple layers of potential misunderstanding. The rise of digital communication has amplified these challenges, as email, texts, and social media strip away nonverbal cues and emotional context that traditionally helped clarify meaning. Additionally, the speed of modern communication often prioritizes efficiency over accuracy, leading to abbreviated exchanges that leave critical details assumed rather than explicitly stated.
The illusion of communication occurs when people believe they have successfully conveyed or received a message, while in reality, significant gaps exist between intended meaning and actual understanding. This phenomenon manifests in countless daily interactions where speakers assume their audience grasps their message simply because words were exchanged, yet the receiver may interpret the information through entirely different frameworks of experience, culture, or context. The illusion is particularly deceptive because both parties often walk away from conversations feeling satisfied that communication has occurred, unaware that they may have fundamentally different understandings of what was discussed. This false sense of clarity can persist for extended periods, leading to misaligned expectations, failed collaborations, and relationship tensions that seem to emerge from nowhere.
Communication is indeed a powerful tool, impacting everything from individual relationships to organizational success.
Empathetic Communication In The Workplace
"Empathy begins with understanding life from another person's perspective." - John Maxwell
Empathetic communication is the practice of truly understanding and connecting with others by actively listening to their emotions, perspectives, and experiences without judgment. It goes beyond simply hearing words to genuinely feeling what another person is experiencing and responding in a way that validates their feelings. This form of communication requires setting aside your own assumptions and reactions to create space for the other person's truth. When we communicate empathetically, we use phrases like "I can understand why you'd feel that way" or "That sounds really challenging" rather than immediately offering solutions or dismissing concerns.
The foundation of empathetic communication lies in active listening and emotional awareness. This means paying attention not just to what someone is saying, but how they're saying it, what emotions are present, and what might be left unspoken. It involves reflecting back what you've heard to ensure understanding, asking gentle questions to learn more, and being comfortable with silence when someone needs time to process their thoughts. Empathetic communicators also pay attention to non-verbal cues like body language and tone of voice, recognizing that these often convey more than words alone.
Empathy is a powerful, efficient communication tool when used appropriately during a medical interview. Empathy extends understanding of the patient beyond the history and symptoms to include values, ideas, and feelings. Benefits of improved empathetic communication are tangible for both physician and patient. Empathetic communication is more than just a "soft skill"; it's a strategic imperative that positively impacts employee engagement, relationships, conflict resolution, leadership effectiveness, and overall organizational success. It creates a thriving environment where employees feel valued, understood, and motivated to perform their best.
Taking active steps to listen with an open mind and hear about what someone is going through shows that you care about them. This can also benefit those close to you, as well as individuals in your life who come from diverse backgrounds. To listen empathetically means to go beyond words and understand the feelings behind them. When someone is upset, being available to listen and show compassion is the most helpful thing you can do. Pay attention not only to the person’s words but also to their tone of voice, body language, and anything else that can help you understand their emotions. Try to put yourself in that person’s shoes and get a deeper perspective on what they are going through.
The impact of empathetic communication extends far beyond individual conversations. It builds trust, strengthens relationships, and creates psychological safety where people feel heard and valued. In personal relationships, it deepens intimacy and connection. In professional settings, it improves teamwork, reduces conflict, and enhances leadership effectiveness. When people feel truly understood, they're more likely to open up, collaborate, and work through challenges together. This type of communication also models emotional intelligence and can inspire others to communicate more empathetically, creating positive ripple effects in families, workplaces, and communities.
Genuine Engagement In Communication
"When people talk, listen completely. Most people never listen." - Ernest Hemingway"
Genuine engagement in communication involves actively and sincerely participating in conversations with openness, attentiveness, and respect. It means being fully present in the moment, listening not just to respond but to understand, and showing empathy toward the speaker. This kind of engagement goes beyond surface-level exchanges; it fosters trust and connection, allowing for more meaningful interactions. Nonverbal cues like eye contact, nodding, and body language also play a crucial role in signaling attentiveness and sincerity. In both personal and professional settings, genuine engagement enhances mutual understanding and collaboration. It encourages open dialogue, reduces misunderstandings, and helps resolve conflicts more effectively. When individuals feel heard and valued, they are more likely to contribute honestly and constructively. Ultimately, this type of communication builds stronger relationships and creates an environment where ideas and emotions can be shared freely and respectfully.
Active listening is a communication skill that involves fully engaging with a speaker by focusing on their message, understanding their perspective, and offering feedback to ensure clarity. Key aspects include avoiding distractions, interpreting both verbal and nonverbal cues, paraphrasing, asking clarifying questions, showing engagement through body language, and withholding judgment. Benefits include improved communication, reduced conflict, increased empathy, and better problem-solving. Techniques used in active listening include paraphrasing, summarizing, asking clarifying questions, and reflecting the speaker's emotions.
Active listening & Observation Communication
Listening is just as essential as talking. Active listening means paying attention and focusing on what the other person is saying. Don't just wait for your turn to speak; watch their body language. What are they saying? Are they happy, sad, or confused? You can use these clues to tailor your response. To become a better listener, summarize what the other person said before you reply to show you were paying attention. Creative thinking is all about developing innovative solutions to problems. Creative thinkers brainstorm not only a large number of ideas but also a variety and range of them. Once they've brainstormed their ideas, creative thinkers will experiment with them. Don't stick to just one way of communicating. Try different things. Write a poem. Create a short video. Learn to play an instrument. Each medium can teach you something new about communication. For instance, visual arts can help you think about design, and music can teach you about rhythm and tone. Try new things to expand your creative abilities.
New ideas can solve tough problems. Creative communication helps unlock those ideas; it creates a space where people feel safe to share their thoughts. It encourages people to think outside the box. Diverse perspectives can lead to breakthroughs. Creative thinking is all about developing innovative solutions to problems. Creative thinkers brainstorm not only a large number of ideas but also a variety and range of them. Once they've brainstormed their ideas, creative thinkers will experiment with them. Creative communication is a skill anyone can learn. It's about storytelling. It's about connecting with others. It's about using visuals to get your point across. It takes practice. But the rewards are worth it. Embrace your creative potential. Keep refining your communication skills. Start today, and share your ideas with the world. You have a unique voice; let it be heard.
Why Honest Communication Matters
“Honest communication is built on truth and integrity and upon respect of one for the other. —Benjamin E. Mays.
However, honest communication does not equate to brutality or insensitivity. It is essential to deliver truth with empathy and consideration for the other person's feelings. This involves choosing appropriate timing, using respectful language, and being mindful of non-verbal cues. The goal of honest communication should be to build understanding and resolve issues, not to inflict pain or damage relationships. Furthermore, honest communication requires active listening. It's not enough to simply express oneself truthfully; one must also be willing to genuinely hear and understand the other person's perspective, even if it differs from their own. This involves paying attention, asking clarifying questions, and reflecting on what has been said.
Honest communication is the bedrock of successful relationships, both personal and professional. It involves expressing oneself truthfully and directly, without resorting to manipulation or evasiveness. While it may sometimes feel challenging to be completely candid, particularly when delivering difficult news or navigating sensitive situations, the long-term benefits of honest communication far outweigh the potential discomfort.
Within personal relationships, honest communication is equally crucial for building and maintaining intimacy and connection. It allows individuals to truly understand each other's needs, feelings, and perspectives. When communication is honest, it minimizes misunderstandings and prevents the buildup of resentment that can occur when emotions are left unexpressed or suppressed. While it may require vulnerability to share one's true thoughts and feelings, this openness deepens bonds and strengthens the foundation of the relationship.
Honest communication is a vital skill for navigating both our personal and professional lives effectively. While it may present challenges, the benefits of fostering trust, transparency, and genuine connection are invaluable. By committing to expressing ourselves truthfully and respectfully and by actively listening to others, we can build stronger relationships, resolve conflicts more effectively, and create a more positive and productive environment for everyone involved. It is a continuous practice that requires conscious effort, but the rewards of honest communication are immeasurable.
In the workplace, honest communication fosters a culture of trust and transparency. When employees feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and concerns openly, it leads to increased collaboration, innovation, and problem-solving. Conversely, a lack of honesty can breed suspicion, resentment, and ultimately, a decline in productivity and morale. Managers who prioritize honest communication build stronger teams and create an environment where employees feel valued and respected. This includes providing constructive feedback clearly and directly, acknowledging mistakes openly, and being transparent about company performance and decisions.
The Art of Communicating
“When we are mindful, deeply in touch with the present moment, our understanding of what is going on deepens, and we begin to be filled with acceptance, joy, peace and love.” Thich Nhat Hanh
"The Art of Communicating," by Thích Nhất Hạnh, emphasizes the importance of mindful communication, both with oneself and others, to build healthier relationships and foster a more compassionate world. It stresses the need for understanding and nourishing language, along with mindful listening and the power of mantras to express love and support. The book guides readers on how to use communication as a tool for personal growth and positive interpersonal interactions.
key Themes and Concepts:
Effective communication begins with self-awareness and understanding one's thoughts and emotions, which can then be applied to understanding others. Just as food nourishes or harms the body, words can have a similar effect on emotions and relationships. Paying attention to the speaker's emotions and words without interruption or judgment is crucial for building strong connections. Communicating truthfully and gently builds trust and nurtures relationships. Collective mindfulness is applying mindfulness in group settings create more harmonious and effective environments.
Practical Applications:
Improving relationships: By practicing mindful communication, individuals can deepen connections with loved ones and build stronger relationships.
Thich Nhat Hanh
Thích Nhất Hạnh (1926–2022) was a Vietnamese Buddhist Zen Master, poet, and peace activist who became one of the most revered and influential spiritual teachers in the world.
Born in Vietnam in 1926, he entered a Buddhist monastery at the age of sixteen, beginning a lifelong journey that would blend contemplative practice with active social engagement. A life of contemplation suited him, yet in viewing the suffering in the world, he also felt compelled to speak up, mobilize, and actively work toward a better future. His early years as a monk coincided with the tumultuous period of the Vietnam War, which would profoundly shape his approach to Buddhism and his understanding of the interconnectedness between inner peace and social justice.
During the Vietnam War, Thích Nhất Hạnh emerged as a powerful voice for peace and nonviolent resistance, founding what became known as "Engaged Buddhism." He led rallies against the violence, united Buddhists and other pacifists in peaceful protests and prayer sessions, and started a Buddhist publishing company. He established Le Boi Press publishing house and the Order of Interbeing, but in 1966, he was exiled from South Vietnam for his opposition to the Vietnam War and for not taking sides. His commitment to peace was so profound that in 1967, he was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This period of activism and subsequent exile would define his life's work, as he spent decades in France developing his teachings on mindfulness, compassion, and peaceful communication.
He established dozens of monasteries around the world, the largest in southwest France, creating a global network for teaching mindfulness and Buddhist principles. His bestselling books have taught dharma and mindfulness to millions, and he has inspired generations of peace and environmental activists. Sometimes referred to in the West as the Father of Mindfulness, Thích Nhất Hạnh played a major part in the rising popularity of Buddhism and made ancient wisdom accessible to contemporary audiences. His approach combined traditional Buddhist meditation practices with practical applications for daily life, emphasizing the importance of mindful awareness in all aspects of human existence, from personal relationships to global conflicts.
"The Art of Communicating," published in 2013 by HarperCollins Publishers LLC, represents one of Thích Nhất Hạnh's most practical contributions to contemporary life. According to Thích Nhất Hạnh, despite the integral role of technology, video conferencing, messaging, and telephones in our lives, we still have difficulty communicating and understanding our inner sufferings. In this precise, practical, and spiritual guide, the Zen master guides readers on a lasting path forward—one that reveals how to listen mindfully and express yourself with conviction, confidence, and above all, compassion. Drawing from the profound wisdom of Buddhism, it provides the tools to develop respectful listening skills, express oneself clearly, and enhance interpersonal relationships, making it a bridge between ancient contemplative wisdom and modern communication challenges.
“When you plant lettuce, if it does not grow well, you don't blame the lettuce. You look for reasons it is not doing well. It may need fertilizer, or more water, or less sun. You never blame the lettuce. Yet if we have problems with our friends or family, we blame the other person. But if we know how to take care of them, they will grow well, like the lettuce. Blaming has no positive effect at all, nor does trying to persuade using reason and argument. That is my experience. No blame, no reasoning, no argument, just understanding. If you understand, and you show that you understand, you can love, and the situation will change.” Thich Nhat Hanh
