In the First Place

When words spring from lips in motion, what they say “in the first place” is often lost in translation, a soothing lotion, misunderstood… for ears may hear, but seldom truly listen. Amid the confusion of lost libretti spoken with a voice so clear, yet, passage of thought becomes murmurs, and misperception triggers truth to veer. William James, The Father of American Psychology, reflects, his voice calm and measured: "The deepest desire within us, is to be accepted, to belong." Ralph G. Nichols, The Father of Listening, with a gentle nod, adds, "To understand, to be understood— The fundamental need of all humans. We bridge that gap by listening." Peter Drucker, The Father of Modern Management, sits, pondering, “Listening is more than skill,” he says, “It's a discipline, a silent art. Keep your mouth shut, truly hear.” Suppose for a moment, that in some hallowed hall, these minds converged to face the tangled web of miscommunication. Together, with profound discourse, their wisdom explains the common-sense virtue required to effectively and properly communicate. With introspective tone tempered by empathy and thoughts of acceptance, the soul’s eonian quest, A dialogue unfolds, distinct and divine. William James, with philosophical grace, speaks of consciousness, a boundless place. "To listen," Norris says, "is to span the divide, where understanding flows, in hearts we confide." Peter Drucker, with discerning eye, seeks the essence in his reply— "Listening transcends mere skill," he opines, "A disciplined art, in quiet confines." Three voices merge in resonant words we’ve all heard or said, spoken with wisdom by which all should be led. So let us strive, with hearts attuned, to craft a cadence that none impugn. With words that nurture, and silence that guides, we bridge the void where meaning resides. To understand, to honor, to stand face-to-face, For such was the goal of listening—not just hearing— the words that were said… IN THE FIRST PLACE!