Communication Blackout

Why do we seem to have the most trouble communicating with the people closest to us ? Logic tells us they should be the easiest to talk to. Is it because the initial exposure or attraction wasn't based on communication, but other factors ? Is it because once we have a vested interest in those close to us, we become so deeply concerned with protecting that interest that we don't take the risk, or leap of faith required to communicate deeply and fully ?

In my limited experience, I've found that friendships or bonds that start with communication, before other factors or experiences are involved, have a solid foundation to build on. Communication flows freely, and the bonds can withstand those moments of candor that often send us hiding.

I think that if we, as a society, were as concerned with teaching communication skills as we are with teaching 8th grade math to 3rd graders and being politically correct, many of our social ills would disappear.

It's a pipe dream, yes. But it's not beyond our reach to affect change in one or two people around us by ending the blackout. it will spread on it's own from there.