Communication is integral for any relationship, be it a familial relationship, a friendship, a business association, a working relationship, or a romantic partnership. Not only is communication important for the success of any relationship, but the lack of it can absolutely ruin a relationship. The repercussions of poor communication include feelings of betrayal, fast propagating distrust, misinterpretation of signals and events, accumulation of problems, willing self-isolation, and the deterioration of relationships. Communication is an excellent means by which all involved parties can work on ailing relationships.
The foundation of solid communication is NOT to make yourself be heard, to express yourself accurately, or to be non-threatening. Granted, these are all components of communication, but the real core of true communication is understanding where the other person is coming from. In fact, good communication can't exist without honest listening. When it is apparent that you are actively listening to someone, absorbing their point of view, and honestly taking it into consideration-you are setting the groundwork for your needs to be expressed and hopefully understood. Though this may seem paradoxical-the key to communication is more to listen to what the other person is saying then it is to flood him/her with who you are, what you want, and how you feel. Remember, disappointing or no, the ultimate goal of communication is most often compromise. It is rare that you can utterly change someone else's perception, opinions, or behavior entirely. And it is generally unreasonable to expect to do so.
Jeff