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Conversation in today's world has been redefined by technology and has encouraged more communication among people. Many alternative options have emerged over the last several years and as a result everyone is virtually connected with everyone. So, now that we are all talking, is anyone really listening? Is there some truth to Professor Kalm's statement,

The stage is full; the seats are empty.

And if this is true, how should we avoid it?

Modern day conversation has become a 24 hour, 7 days a week activity. Social media supports conversation, but it also creates a social pressure within society. For anyone who may not have a particular passion in something, but wants to have a voice it forces the person to identify their belief; or passion; or niche. Before taking this course I never thought I had a niche in anything. I realize now how beneficial it is to have even just one passion and if one hasn't been established to at least be thinking about possibilities. There are many people out there who do not have a passion, or maybe they might have one and not realize it. A true interest in something is not only good for conversations, it also makes a person more well-rounded.

No wonder why conversation is difficult, but as long as communication continues evolving this will always be the case. Regardless, good conversation should still remain the standard with all forms of communication. Professor Kalm's list of things that deem conversation as being good(i.e., comfort, one-on-one situation, time, listening) are more than reasonable, and you would think it could easily be followed through. But why so difficult then? The mind needs to be actively engaged and this requires self-discipline. This is what supports a good conversation.

We will always be learning how to modify and adjust the ways in which we communicate with one another. This I am sure of. It is important not to get caught up in the inevitable change we experience each and everyday, and also to remind ourselves of our original intention for setting out to do something. While technology will keep producing new gadgets to "simplify" our lives, we need to have the insight to be self-disciplined enough to set our own benchmarks to achieve our goals.