Let’s Talk

 Let’s Talk  [First published 8/26/2022 in P.S. UPdate]  (UMC & local congregation decisions)

“...let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger .”-James1:19b^NRSVUE 

“If one gives answer before hearing, it is folly and shame. “ -Proverbs18:13^NRSVUE 

We can have better conversations. More life-giving & loving conversations. We know how. It starts with respect, a shape that love takes. It includes patience. Good conversation involves humility, “I may be wrong about some of this.” Better talk means listening first until your partner feels heard.

Webster defines hearing as the “process, function, or power of perceiving sound; specifically: the special sense by which noises and tones are received as stimuli.” Listening, on the other hand, means “to pay attention to sound; to hear something with thoughtful attention; and to give consideration.” A good conversation require listening.

“Change happens by listening and then starting a dialogue with the people who are doing something you don’t believe is right.” (Jane Goodall)  A conversation is about respect not winning, learning not debate, cooperation, not domination. I invite you to intentional listening. Then, let’s talk.

Prayer- Attentive Creator, teach me to listen deeply & respond only with love. Amen.