Improving Her Aim
Originally posted on July 15, 2007
Continued from “Ignoring the Facts”
Cassandra: You remember what I told you about communication, Eli? About the words being far less important than the body language that accompanies them?
Eli: Yeah, more of those “expert” opinions.
Cassandra: But true nonetheless, and borne out through much research. I trusted that research, Eli. So I watched you carefully, and it wasn’t too difficult to see what you were thinking when I told you…..
Eli: So that’s it. You forgot something, Cassandra. Research also indicates that a listener’s expectations can unduly influence comprehension of the message, especially in emotionally charged situations.
Cassandra: (gasp) Wha…..? How…………..?
Eli: You’re not the only one with access to the experts. I’ve been doing a little research of my own. I was trying hard to understand why you…. how I somehow made you believe what wasn’t true. But I’m telling you plainly, right now….. I wanted you before, and I want you more than ever now. Never doubt that.
Eli: I’m sure you know it’s out of character for me to be unselfish, but you’re important to me, Cassandra. I even surprised myself when I realized just how important….
Eli: Well, well, well, what have we here?
Cassandra: (greatly embarrassed) It’s nothing. Ignore it.
Eli: (teasing) I wondered what you needed all those photos for. Is this the “research room” Marty Jean was referring to?
Cassandra: (under her breath) I’m going to have to kill Marty Jean. (aloud) I needed a little practice throwing darts. This was a handy wall.
Eli: I’ll just bet you did. Funny I don’t see any holes in the pictures, or in the walls. Your aim must be WAY off. Maybe I’ll have to teach you how to be more…….. accurate.
Cassandra: Maybe you will. Do you think I’ll be able to learn?
Eli: Oh yeah…I bet you’ll be a quick study…….but it won’t matter anyway. We’ll spend as much time as you need….. on those lessons……