Have you ever experienced a miscommunication with someone? Don’t answer that. Of course you have. We all have!
How was the miscommunication resolved? That’s the most important question.
Too often, we may say something and the other party hears something completely different from what we thought we said, or the intention of our words.
This results in hurt and pain, on both parts.
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,” James 1:19 NIV
I’ve learned, through the years, that listening requires a lot more than simply hearing. It requires a desire, motivation, and willingness to understand. As I work on being a better listener, I’m working on understanding those words and feelings that are not being said. Sometimes it’s easy to take someone at their word.
She/he said she was fine. And we leave it there, even if we know that the situation isn’t one to leave anyone fine.
They said they didn’t care. This has to be one of the biggest lies I’ve ever encountered in my life. PSA: They do care.
I remind myself and my children that anger is a secondary emotion. When we choose to slow down and not allow anger to readily consume and control us… What’s really going on?
If I can be honest with you, for me, it’s often feelings I don’t want to feel: embarrassment, hurt, rejection, fear, overwhelmed, helpless, invalidated, humiliated…
It’s important to know and understand what we feel in ourselves, so we can empathize with others. How else can we love others? And, how many conflicts will be resolved or even avoided, when we are quick to listen and understand and slow to become angry and argumentative…
*Original image courtesy of Yours Truly ☀️🌸🤍
On the Outside Looking In 