I really enjoyed this post. I liked the baggage concept as we all carry it whether or not we know about it or accept it for what it is. Knowing your baggage is a good first step prior to the time and energy consuming listening and understanding phases of a conversation. Also being respectful and realizing there is not one truth or reality does go a long ways to a good relationship. This summary is pretty much a rehash of what you cover in this post which goes to show (I think it does at least) that I agree with what you say here.