You're on the way to the airport. You get on the plane with a 
book that you've been planning to read for quite some time. As 
you open your book, you glance at the person next to you. A few 
minutes later you are asked a question and you reluctantly 
answer. You lower your book a bit to be polite and after a few 
minutes you find yourself putting your book down and engaging in 
a conversation, although with a lack of enthusiasm. And then the 
person next to you, let's call him John, makes an observation 
about you that's quite perceptive and sensitive. You start to 
become curious about who John is and in the course of the 
conversation, he tells you of an experience he has only shared 
with a few people. You let John know that you have had the same 
experience. By now you're totally engaged and listening to every 
word he says. You notice every nuance in the inflection of his 
voice and the way he moves. Time seems to stand still and the 
next thing you know the plane lands. You say goodbye to the 
kindred soul you have just met.

Wouldn't you love to have these experiences more often? You feel 
heard and everything seems possible. It is communication at its 
highest level and it's a lost art. You can have these experiences 
more often if you embrace the four fundamental truths of 
communication.

The first truth is to know that what we all want on a deeper 
level is the ability to connect with another, to touch each 
other's soul. Unfortunately, too many of our conversations are 
just an exchange of ideas and information and we rarely penetrate 
the surface. Most of our focus is on how we are going to respond 
to what is being said instead of listening. When we know that 
what the other person really wants is connection, there is common 
ground to build upon. With this foundation, we can build 
relationships that deepen and empower those involved.

The second truth is to know that listening involves much more 
than just listening to words. It is tuning into the energy beyond 
the words. It is understanding the needs and feelings of the 
other person. It is about being totally engaged and at the same 
time being in the rhythm of life. Yes, it takes a lot of energy 
but you will be energized by what you get back. Imagine living in 
a world where you are truly listening and fully engaged.

The third truth is to know that you must take responsibility for 
the quality of your communication. Because we all have long 
standing attitudes and beliefs we sometimes find ourselves trying 
to convince the other person of our viewpoints. Being right then 
becomes the goal of the interaction rather than communication and 
the next thing you know you are in a full-fledged argument. Just 
think of what happens when you discuss politics or religion. Is 
being right more important than experiencing one of those magical 
moments?

The fourth truth is that communication is a process and an art. 
Being a masterful communicator doesn't happen over night but it 
starts with the intention to experience more connection in your 
busy life. Just like other art forms, i.e. dancing or music, 
their is a natural ebb and flow in the learning cycle. As your 
commitment deepens you notice that you are having frequent 
glimpses of the magic that is possible in your life. The ultimate 
communication occurs when you are able to touch anothers soul and 
share who you are. This new-found magic then becomes the gateway 
to a more fulfilling life.

At our core level we all have the same human needs and desires. 
We want to know that we matter and that our life has meaning and 
purpose. We also have the need to love and to be loved. When we 
accept and recognize that we all have these same basic human 
needs and desires we realize that we are part of one human 
family. When we work together as one, what is possible in our 
lives, communities, and the world expands.

Embracing the 4 fundamental truths of communication and applying 
them to your daily life is a gift to all involved. As a way of 
reaching out to others and connecting with them please share this 
letter with the friends in your circle and let them know about 
the advantages of being on the journey. Part of my journey has 
been listening and learning from all the teachers who bless my 
life. Your suggestions and comments contribute to my learning and 
help me expand and evolve. Keep them flowing.

Journey On 

Mark Susnow has a unique background. Formerly a successful trial 
attorney for 30 years, as well as musician, he integrates what it 
takes to be truly prosperous in the world with the inner wisdom 
unfolded to him through years of yoga and meditation practice. As 
a personal coach, leadership consultant and inspirational 
speaker, Mark provides inspiration and motivation to many 
business leaders and professionals. He knows what it means to 
have a big vision and has demonstrated the courage and energy it 
takes to accomplish it. Consider contacting Mark and be sure to 
visit his website: http://www.inspirepossibility.com