This story reflects a sorry aspect of the human condition. All in all, conversation time is diminishing. Reflect back to yourself. You want to be understood. In other words, use conversation effectively.
Conversation is our tool to be in contact with other human beings.
Unless we communicate, we're all alone. Speech is therefore what distinguishes human beings from other creatures. We can be self-centered and closed up. Conversation is a way out of that self-absorption. Too many friendships never get beyond the superficial stage.