A New Level Of Communication

"Thanks for reading the book Dad, it means a lot to me."

With those words, I believe a new chapter in a a father/son relationship has begun.I'm sure all of us out there would know about the parent to child conversations you have, where the mum or dad asks the 20 questions, and you (as the child) answer back in one word answers. Even at our age, you still get the same things.

Of course, all of us want to share with our families, and to seek advice form our parents...they have experience there that is helpful on our own journey. What's annoying is the fact that we get shot down as soon as we voice an opinion or dream that may not conform to their expectations.

Me: Oh, I was thinking of trying some sales job
Dad: What the...? Why are you throwing away your IT skills? How are you going to get those skills? Who will hire you? Blah blah blah...

So after another one of these quality communication exchanges, I thought it would be a bold step to give my dad some reading. 7 Habits :) But only one very small section about "seeking first to understand, then be understood".To be honest, I wasn't expecting much. Parents have that ace up the sleeve, namely the "I'm too old to change" call, that there is no counter for. However, after coming back from volleyball training, Dad sat me down and said,

"I photocopied the pages, cause I want Mum to read it as well. It makes a whole lot of sense. I realise what I've been doing before, and I'm going to make an effort to not judge so quickly."

Amazing!

Damn! four cheap calls already:

don't go into the car sales business - we already got kevkev for cheapie cars! I think u should work in designer womens wear...i do need to some new clothes!
mushiejc (link) - 24 April '05 - 12:53

wow! i'm surprised it worked for you.

i tried passing the same book, and another to my parents yonks ago, and i got the "i'm too old to change", "i know i'm right", line as well.

glad to hear ur dad is humble and open minded to your suggestions
alvina - 24 April '05 - 17:00

Damn, it really worked on your dad?! Good story, I can imagine the "don't waste it" line like I was there :)
PeeDz - 27 April '05 - 20:11

What the...??! Sales??! Next thing you're gonna start studying medicine or something?

RC
randomcow - 02 May '05 - 11:04