John Stewart (2012) used two very interesting terms (Inhaling and Exhaling) to describe the communication process. He further describes the communication process as ever-changing, multidimensional, sometimes confusing, continuous, etc. The term Inhaling refers to the perception and listening portion of the communication process and Exhaling refers to self-expression, or our ability to be open within the communication process or to self verify. (pp. 158)

I find that I am becoming more and more aware of the communication process and the importance of communicating effectively. I understand that at each stage of communication whether inhaling/exhaling we all have a responsibility. In the past, I saw communication as an aggressive opportunity to get my point across. Not realizing that the information that I received was equally important as the message I was sending.

Stewart teaches that at this stage of communication the listener and the speaker should have equal power in the communication process. This is no doubt a far cry from today’s society and how we as a people see and/or engage in the communication process.

Proverbs 18:13 says “He who answers before listening–that is his folly (stupidity) and his shame (embarrassment).” On a regular basis more so than not, we commit lawless acts of stupidity which all too often results in embarrassment.

My prayer: As we progress through this life; that we as a nation, as a society, as a people, as the human race simply learn, to communicate effectively. That we learn this in order to preserve life, preserve character and preserve relationships.

Works Cited:

Stewart, J. (2012). Bridges Not Walls. New York: Mc-Graw-Hill.

The Holy Bible, New International Version. (1984). Grand Rapids, Michigan: Biblica Inc.