Communicating Differently

• Do you find yourself communicating differently with people from different groups and cultures?
• If yes, in what ways do you communicate differently?

I work hard to be myself in all situations, all the while being culturally sensitive.  I believe it's important to be who God made me to be, but to always consider other's feelings.  Having lived internationally and being bilingual helps me to remember other's cultures.  I work to discover a person's likes and dislikes as well as their personal culture by asking questions about their life rather than talking about myself.  This week's readings on the Platinum Rule reminds me to consider to treat others with the respect that THEY want.

Chicago FIre

I have never watched the drama series, Chicago Fire.  I watched the first 20 minutes without sound. It was filled with emotional events, that appeared to create both sadness, fear and anger in the characters.  They displayed tears, posture of hopelessness, angered eyes and aggressive body language.  The characters seem to have strong relationships, because there is so much emotion wrapped up in their communication.
When re-watching the first 20 minutes I found that I was correct in my assumptions.  That the characters had pre existing relationships that caused sadness and anger when faced with tragedy.  They were protective of one another and were angered on the others behalf. 
My assumptions wouldn't have been much more correct had I been familiar with the show.  It certainly proves that nonverbal cues are significant and highly impactful.

Competent Communication

When I think about a person, in my life, that is an example of a competent communicator, I think of one of my dear colleagues. My colleague works for the State of Michigan, she works to educate parents on how to be an advocate for their child(s).  Holly, my colleague, first and foremost speaks genuinely and from the heart.  As a mother herself she draws of personal experiences to make connections with families/parents.  She doesn't try to represent herself as the perfect educator or parent.  She trains from perspective that we are all on a journey and learning as we go.  Families so easily become comfortable with her.  I have been graced with spending many hours, days and weeks with Holly gaining countless ideas on how to improve my own communication skills.  Holly creates conversations that encourages parents to be empowered.  She is a good listener, which is vital, to shared communication.  Most importantly, she cares about others and it shows in her communication style.