RESPONDING TO A CALL TO ACTION

9-year-old Christina Taylor Green had lofty dreams. She wanted to help other people. She traveled with her neighbor in Tucson, Arizona to see her Congressperson, a woman, a role model, someone from whom she could learn about public service. You know what happened.

President Obama spoke at a memorial service for Christina and five others who were killed that day in Tucson, and the Congressperson who was gravely wounded, and the numerous other people who were shot and injured. He asked each of us to “live up to her expectations.”

The President implored his fellow citizens to communicate with each other “in a way that heals, not in a way that wounds.”

When a professional speaks to an organization or conducts a workshop, he or she may introduce a communication model that puts others first. For example, Constant Messaging® is focused on establishing a personal brand that is welcoming and giving. During the creation of a Quiet Storm of Silent Communication an audience is taught to encourage and uplift those with whom they come into contact. Through awareness of what silent communication is and particularly awareness of how our communication impacts others, we silently change attitudes, make friends, and grow in our personal lives and in our careers.

My friend Dylene Cymraes captured the power of the Outfluence lifestyle when she wrote these words: “In a group of at-risk kids, leadership emerges. A young man named Steven sits in the circle of his peers: his clothing, mannerisms, and attitude all command respect from the kids around him. They might snipe at each other, show disdain or disregard—but when this young man speaks, they listen. He has found a voice—his bearing denotes his own brand of leadership ability.

“But Steven is woefully unprepared for what lies ahead. In this venue, he has some level of respect; but in the adult world for which he is headed, the baggy pants and chains won’t help him gain an adult’s favorable vote in an interview. It’s not because he’s not interested in his own success; but he may not have the tools to operate in an adult world.

“The message most children send is one of frustration, rebellion and exploration. As they move from this place in their lives to more interaction with the adult world, most are unaware that what they don’t say is just as powerful as what they speak. Because they are not given tools to understand how impressions are formed, many will struggle with job or college interviews, as well as further work.

“As a facilitator and communicator for over 20 years, I know how much unconscious communication influences attitudes and opinion. The Silent Communication concept raises awareness by showing actions speak more eloquently than words ever will—and leaves a much deeper impression. If teenagers are given this powerful information, and taught how to make it work in their favor, they will be better prepared to meet the new responsibilities adulthood demands.”

Mr. President, as you so eloquently asked the nation to do, we are working toward becoming better people. The best way we have discovered to do that is through a lifestyle that simply puts the needs of others first.