Electrical continuity of control linkages and electrical instruments

I had the seat pan out of my glider and I noticed that there are several braided wires connecting the metal stick to other metal parts and the (-) side of the power distribution block, battery, and (via power distribution wires) to the (-) of the electrical instruments (with small fuses on each instrument).

I understand that this has something to do with possible lightening strikes and also minimizing RF interference for radio, transponder etc..

Can someone provide a better explanation (or a link)?

If lightening hits a control rod, what happens to the pilot holding the hot stick?