I’ve been giving a lot of thought to the manner in which we communicate with one another. How can there be unity without communication? If we can’t sit down and have a civil conversation with each other where everyone’s views are appreciated, where does that leave us.
We have to listen to one another, share opinions, and respect differences.
There are different forms of communi cation, body language being one. Imagine yourself in a conversation, your arms are folded across your chest and you have a scowl on your face, but you’re insisting you’re alright. Where is the conversation iminating from, your body is doing the talking. Body language is crucial to communication it’s silent unspoken communication. Your body and your mouth are not in agreement.
Let’s look at communication in our daily routines. How are you communicating with the people you run into on a daily basis, Starbucks, the grocery store, or the gas station. I can’t remember the last time I took the time to stop and have a conversation with someone in the line at Walmart. We are we so afraid to talk to one another now? Is it just the virus or others issues in our society. I’m praying this virus doesn’t cause us lose the art of casual conversation. Believe me, I know it’s kind of hard to have a conversation while we’re all wearing masks, but you get my point.
Words do matter. It does matter to people what you say, and it matters how you say it, watch your tone. Everyone deserves to be heard and understood, but we don’t have to yell and scream at one another. Have you ever looked at someone and maybe you considered saying something and you thought, no I think I’ll wait before I approach them, because you knew from just looking at them that now was not a good time. What kind of energy are you giving off? Please don’t let your emotions control you and stop you from communicating.
A few months ago I was in Walmart ago, when everything was normal. I had a few items in my basket. When I got to the register there was an older gentleman and his wife behind me. I turned and started a conversation with them they seemed so delighted that someone took the time to take interest. When it was my time at the register, the husband paid for my items. When I asked why, he said it was because I was so pleasant and kind. I think that’s the one thing I hate most about the mask, I miss seeing the smiles and I miss the conversations.
Ephesians 4:29 Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.
Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Great article. I think people will limit verbal communication even more since we have to wear mask. We still communicate with our body language and eyes. I wonder how much of our actions are miscommunicated when we try to avoid people due to our desire to avoid contracting COVID29?
Thank you for your thoughtful response, great question. I wonder how much language and rich conversation and interaction is being missed as a result of the mask.