When Silence is Golden

                Lao Tzu once said, “Silence is a source of great strength.” As I was trying to articulate my understanding on the traditional and contemporary approach to Development Communication models, one word came to mind. Listen. I believe that this simple word has a say to the past and present approaches.

                It is said that the traditional approach requires a speaker and a receiver of information to complete the cycle. Once the information has been given to the receiver, a feedback may or may not be given, then the cycle starts again. But that does not mean that the receiver is not given the opportunity to voice out or verbalize their opinion/s before a development is implemented. Or even if it did, it would not be a major part of the communication cycle.

                The new communication, known as the C4D, is also known as a people-centered communication model. This model “promotes and elaborated on peoples own development communication aims and needs.”  Likewise, this model makes certain that the people have a say, or has a major role on developmental issues and concerns. What is good about this model is the role of the people on development. And this is possible because everyone involved is required to listen before making any final actions.

                Of course, most people (that also includes me) that the modern models are much better for development. But there are just times when people become too vocal that they become too persistent they are capable of shutting down other voices in the circle. This may be considered a major disadvantage since it has a tendency to create chaos, delay, and even failure to the cause that is being proposed. And I think this is one of the factors that cause failure in delivering development to some areas of communication.  It is truly a disadvantage when the voice of the majority is being considered, but personally, I think it is more of an individual responsibility to take it as a lesson that when we are given a chance to be heard, we must repay it by listening as well.

                Ultimately, I can say that whether a development communicator chooses the traditional or the modern communication model, as long as he/ she would not forget to take a back seat, absorb, and filter every information needed for the issue, then I can say the output or the accomplishment is truly within reach, and which everyone involved can be truly proud of.