|
|
Along Life’s Way
You
Said Something?
By Lois E. Wilson
At some time in your life, you have probably heard the admonishment,
“We have one mouth and two ears. That indicates that we should listen
two times more than we talk.”
One reason we fail to listen is because we are too busy talking. As
Nathan Miller aptly put it, “Conversation in the United States is a
competitive exercise in which the first person to draw a breath is
declared the listener.”
I made this observation about personal communication in my verse “Two
Way”:
You speak;
I listen.
I speak;
You listen.
Communication—
It should be easy.
If you have nothing to say, then it may be best to say absolutely
nothing for the reason in this verse of mine “The Truth Will Out.”
If you’re asked something that you don’t know—
Rather than reply as you act glib
Offering up a created fib
It is best to let the whole thing go;
For your ignorance is apt to show.
In conversation, there is a happy medium. Too much agreement can end a
chat. The reverse is also true. Two much disagreement may end it
abruptly on a negative note. Before that point is reached, it is wise
to agree to disagree and move on to another less divisive topic.
Those engaged in conversation should feel free to express their
opinions. Everyone should also be willing listeners. By exchanging
ideas and opinions all parties are more likely to learn something. That
is always a good result—it is the bonus. It gives you more subjects to
discuss the next time.
|
|
|
<
|
