"The most immutable barrier in nature is between one man’s thoughts and another’s." - William James

George Bernard Shaw, always the cynic, said the problem with communication "is the illusion that it has been accomplished."

Have you ever thought you were perfectly clear about something you said, only to find out later your words or intentions were misunderstood? At one time or another, we all experience this.

As a longtime journalist, I witnessed a lifetime of misunderstandings, disputes and arguments, and I developed a fascination with the process of human communication. One thing I’ve learned is that we all filter things we see and hear, and there's a reason why we do that. All of this has inspired and driven me to have a business today that is focused on improving interpersonal communications.

My clients know me as a performance consultant and trainer. The truth is, nearly everything I do begins with the development of communication skills.

Mr. Shaw may be right at times, but wouldn't it be nice if we could change the illusion of communication into reality?

-Peter DeArmond, Kern Delta Communications

Okay, what's the deal with the cute dogs?

These are Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (Ginger on the left, and Dolly on the right.) They are very affectionate dogs who will literally "hug-snuggle" you. For obvious reasons they can be used as therapy dogs for people of all ages and afflictions.

For years I've observed how people react to these dogs. Ginger and Dolly make an immediate connection with everyone they encounter. They remind me that what's easy and natural for them is not always easy and natural for us. Ginger and Dolly don't have to make a conscious effort to communicate effectively with different types of people. In the world where humans interact at work and at home, it's a different story. Our thoughts and intentions are easily misunderstood.

We can change that with a willingness to learn and practice effective communication skills. The payoff may not be a hug, but it will make life a lot more tolerable at work and at home.

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