Dialogue from the Greek word dialogos: Logos means ‘the word,’ and dia means ‘through.’ I picture a stream of meaning flowing through and between us. There is a flow of meaning, concepts, and ideas rushing and swirling around us. In a river, a clenched fist does little to control the water. But, a relaxed hand and body will float, making navigation easy.
The objective of dialogue is not to win an argument or trade opinions. Instead, in dialogue, we suspend our beliefs and hold them before us for examination, listening to everybody’s thoughts, exploring and looking at our personal and group meaning.
I imagine suspending an opinion for examination is much like catching up with an old friend.
“We have always been together. No, not always? When did we meet? Oh, that day; not the best of days. But, you have been with me through thick and thin ever since! Ok, well, that shouldn’t count because that situation was different. When do you think we work best together? I like having you around because it’s easier when you’re here. May I ask you a personal question?”
Sometimes, just like old friends, we take our opinions for granted. But, our opinions are the truth - aren’t they? My opinions are true and based on the facts that I have chosen. Chosen?
“Two people, by challenging and responding to one another, may come closer to the truth than either one could alone.” ~ Plato
When each person participates, partakes, and seeks to understand the whole meaning of the group, that is genuine dialogue. That is truth engaged.
~Neal