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The Art of Connection

https://tallct.wordpress.com/2025/04/21/the-art-of-connection/

When can we say we have truly connected with someone? It is much deeper than just communicating something trivial to someone or being in the same office or classroom.

To be connected is to share a link, something that transpired that both persons hold of great value. To be connected with a group means that there is something worthy shared among them.

Nowadays, in the busyness of 9 to 5 routines and presence of gadgets and overstimulation of various media and influx of so much information, the time, probability and opportunity to deeply connect frequently is diminished.

Too, the culture has become more jaded, with cynical outlooks, dark humor, and propensity for activities that cater to the senses - dining, traveling, drinking, watching, shopping, partying, etc.

But establishing deep authentic connections take effort, time, and skill. It is both science and art. For it requires vulnerability, authenticity, empathy, and maturity.

It is about forming meaningful relationships, understanding others on a deeper level, and being valued and valueing another. A team huddle in the morning may get the team up to speed on new announcements but it is hardly connection.

The art of connecting requires deeper level conversations, those that go beyond what to eat or what is the new political issue. Such conversations or value activity form a bond of mutual trust, respect, and exchange of deep emotion, that is very satisfying and fulfulling.

It is the art of being sensitive to nuances, getting to know the other's preferences, being courageous enough to venture into less than safe but more meaningful topics, accepting differences, but appreciating what is common, giving as well as receiving, committing to maintain and further develop the bond, being authentic enough to show your true self without putting up too much of an impression, and being broadminded enough to understand the flaws and the differences.

Not everyone can do it. It is not easy. But it is longer lasting and more intensely gratifying. It also leads to better health and longer life. It is an art that can and should be cultivated and studied well.

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Source: The Art of Connection

“You cannot make someone understand a message they are not ready to receive.”

— Unknown

“If the full moon loves you, why worry about the stars?”

— Tunisian Proverb