Bridges Not Walls Metaphor Analysis

4. Bridges Not Walls Metaphor: Genuine Dialogue
“In genuine dialogue the turning to the partner takes place in all truth, that is, it is a turning of the being” (Stewart, 2009, p. 75) Turning to the other and telling the truth allows true connection to take place in a conversation. Turning to the other does more than open a conversation, but also creates a deep connection. As well, “…by accepting him as my partner in genuine dialogue I have affirmed him as a person” (Stewart, 2009, p. 75). Goes beyond speaking to someone, but instead actually recognizing they are a human being that deserves to be spoken to honestly. Likewise, “if genuine dialogue is to arise, everyone who takes part in it must bring himself into it. And that also means that …show more content…
He implements genuine dialogue with everyone he speaks with, aside from Patty who only wants to be with him for lovemaking purposes, therefore he does not use genuine dialogue as a way to distance himself from her. Again, when using genuine dialogue the speaker must turn towards the listener and reveal the truth (Stewart, 2009, p. 75). When speaking with the younger interns Ben is a true gentleman, he physically turns towards them, gives them eye contact, and tells them what he genuinely thinks about their dilemma or question. In order to give genuine dialogue, the other must be seen as more than an inanimate object, they must be seen as a person (Stewart, 2009, p. 75). Ben does so well at speaking sincerely because he sees everyone as a living breathing human being that he cares for. He wants them to be happy and to live eventful lives, which he expresses in his recommendations that are meant to help them. In addition, in order for genuine dialogue to take place, everyone must bring themselves into the conversation and say what is on their mind (Stewart, 2009, p. 75). Ben encourages the young interns to say what is on their mind, to express why their current situation is not going well so that he can provide the best advice he can. For example, when Jason is explaining why Becky is mad at him Ben strongly encourages Jason to dig deeper into the real reason Becky is infuriated with him. Then Jason reveals that he slept with Becky’s roommate and only sent her an apology text. At this point, Ben sees where Jason feel short and tells him that in order for him to attempt to calm the waters Jason must apologize to her in person and let her know that he cares about her by actually taking an interest in her life, through sincere conversations. Jason accepts Ben’s advice because he can sense he is being genuine and he knows that he has nothing more to lose with