Conversation
is when three people
stand on the corner
talking.
Gossip
is when one of them
leaves.
- Herb Shriner

This section deals with problems in communication, and it recommends the use of clear and proper alternatives. We also discuss improved methods of giving directions as an example of proper communication.

Another section in this website, Solving Problems, identifies communication as the root of many of the world's problems. After the Mashiach gets everybody to communicate properly among themselves, the rest of his work should be easy.

Communication really is difficult. When two people discuss a third person, there is likely to be a problem with communication. It may also lead to hotzaat shem ra, or lashon hara. It may even result in the ludicrous game of Telephone.

And why is that game of Telephone so successful? Because information inevitably becomes corrupted when one person tells something to a second person, and when it is repeated to a third person. Even under the best of circumstances, it is difficult (or impossible) to give another person a message without garbling it.

You've already played Telephone. You've seen and heard the problems that result from the game. At the time, you may have laughed at the funny results.

As a game, Telephone may be funny. However, as an issue, it's not funny. If the game of Telephone usually shows the problems with communicating through a third party, then why do you feel that you can relay any message accurately and responsibly? That's right – your mission is not likely to be successful.

You can reduce the potential for damage by asking the original speaker to repeat his message to others by himself. You may also suggest that he present the issue himself at a meeting.

Any other method of relaying messages, especially by indirect means, may be courting disaster.