Welcome back to our Lenten challenge! I hope we’re all making progress, taking a sweet pause before we speak, and assessing the “why” behind our words.
Our next step is to consider how we deliver our comments, not only our words, but our posture, and timing as well. Our remarks should always be gentle and respectful, considerate of others’ feelings. Sometimes our motives are kind, but our word choice is insensitive. Harsh words are rarely productive and generally put others on the defensive. Again, a good question to ask myself is, “How would I feel if someone said this to me? “
A mild answer turns back wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger (Proverbs 15:1).
Words are not the only way we communicate; we also use body language and facial expressions.
Am I saying something mean, but delivering it with a false smile?
Am I saying something nice, but revealing my negative thoughts by the look on my face? Other people can easily read our true feelings. When our words and feelings contradict each other, we will not be trusted, and our words will not be helpful.
Finally, we should consider our timing. For example, I don’t have to share details about my great promotion right after my neighbor loses her job. I don’t need to tell a friend about my daughter’s full scholarship award the day after her son gets his college rejection letter. Yes, people I love will want to celebrate my good news, but it is more considerate to choose the right time to share.
Golden apples in silver settings are words spoken at the proper time (Proverbs 25:11).
Let’s continue working on our words even before we speak them. But this week, let’s also consider our body language, facial expressions, and timing, too. Come back next week, and we’ll add another idea. See you then!
-colleen
Excerpts taken from: Arnold, Colleen. “5 Steps toward Better COMMUNICATION.” St. Anthony Messenger, vol. 129, no. 8, 2022, pp. 31-34.
