Really???
LOL
Meh...
:)
Between abbreviated texts, emoticons, monosyllabic
grunts, and facial expressions, we communicate a great deal without so much as
stating a complete thought. Today, May 31st is Speak
in Complete Sentences Day. Besides conjuring up images of my eighth grade
teacher diagramming sentences on the chalkboard at sonic speed, this holiday
got me thinking about how much time we take to fully express ourselves.
Smart phones have made it easy to keep in touch,
via texting and word-recognition software, but can get us in trouble when it
comes to “tone.” When’s the last time you paused at someone’s choice
of ‘Really???’ versus ‘Really?’ Things like irony, punch lines and subtle
teasing can get lost in transmission. And in the end it comes back to a phone
call or a quick visit to check in and lend clarity.
What’s something you’ve been meaning to say?
What conversation have you been meaning to have? Isn’t it time you
got around to it? Not putting anyone on the spot, I too have a
long-overdue heart-to-heart I’ve been throwing on the back burner. And,
actually, in writing this I am encouraged. Deep down I know the calm and
resolution that come from expressing myself far outweigh all the angst and
confusion of remaining silent.
A friend of mine said something simple the other
day. It was one of those statements so obvious as to be greeted with...“DUH.”
And yet it’s amazing how truth can be so plain that we miss the point
altogether. Anyway, he said, “you should say what you have to say and then you
get what you get.” I think the key is accepting/making peace with
whatever happens and taking comfort in the fact that you spoke up for yourself,
or to someone you care about.
HUH? Yes, and ask questions. It
occurred to me that asking questions is also a form of affirmation. So, in
asking for clarification, I care enough about myself to make sure I fully
comprehend what I’m hearing. It is also respectful to the person who’s
doing the communicating.
Ok, I’m off my soapbox for now. Happy “Speak
in Complete Sentences Day.” Make your actions and THOUGHTS count!
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