'Communication'
I Was Thinking…
In his book Developing the Leaders Around You leadership guru John Maxwell writes that “Communication is positive interaction. When communication is one-sided, it can be comical.” Then he records this experience:
“Why do you want a divorce?” the judge asked. “On what grounds?”
“All over. We have an acre and a half,” responded the woman.
“No, no,” said the judge. “Do you have a grudge?”
“Yes, sir. Fits two cars.”
“I need a reason for the divorce,” said the judge impatiently.
“Does he beat you up?”
“Oh, no. I’m up at six every day to do my exercises. He gets up later.”
“Please,” said the exasperated judge. “What is the reason you want a divorce?”
“Oh,” she replied. “We can’t seem to communicate with each other.” P.57
It can be comical but it can also be sad when communication is challenged. I’m not sure where I first heard it but someone once said “We have two ears and one mouth indicating we need to listen twice as much as we speak.” For those of us who are extroverts this simple truth may be our greatest challenge. For those of us who are introverts we may listen but our challenge may be speaking when something needs speaking.
The longer I live the more I believe that communication is the key to many doors. What we communicate and how we communicate opens or closes doors. So how are we communicating these days?
This Lenten season is a time for honing our communication skills. Focusing on our relationship with God and the unconditional love expressed through Jesus and the cross is important in our connecting to the heart of God. When we are in sync with God, we know a relationship that is growing in listening and speaking.
I’m going to pay attention to my ears and my mouth this week. I’m going to work at being the best communicator I can become. I’m hearing in a different way the words of Jesus, “Love your neighbor as yourself”. I invite you to join me in the journey.
Always Thinking…
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