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How wonderful it is to be together with people who really listen to what you are saying, instead of just waiting for their turn to speak. Have you been there, when you exchange ideas, share your feelings and you give and receive back. When we talk to each other it is a good thing to try to understand the meaning of the other persons words and thoughts. To look into his or her’s world. Even to step into their world. You don’t have to accept everything before doing that. Active listening, I call it.

Another important thing is that you are willing to change your ideas and opinions as a result of your conversation. Communication is not persuation. These are key ingredients I have found in relationships with your children, in marriage and even between people of different cultures.

I think of a friend of mine who always pauses after he has said: How are you? He really wants to know. A while ago when we were having lunch, he said: How are you and your wife getting along? Pause. I did not say hastily: It is OK. It was OK, but I had to think for a while and give an honest answer.