Mindful Hack #87

I seem to remember when I was a kid hearing grown-ups say, “think before you speak,” in much the same tone as I heard, “say you’re sorry,” and “this, too, shall pass.” Perhaps it was because of that tone that all of them seemed like platitudes, and yet the wisdom in the words is profound.
 
We are social beings and crave connection. Communication is a huge part of connecting and yet all too often we are thoughtless, in other words not especially mindful, of the way we communicate. We don’t always choose our words very carefully and aren’t always aware of the way our tone might be perceived. In trying to convey to someone what we’re thinking or feeling, we can easily offend or hurt feelings, creating disconnection.
 
If we could practice thinking before we speak (or write) more often, we would likely avoid a lot of conflict. But we’re human and going to err, at which point the right thing to do is say we’re sorry (and mean it). And if that apology falls on deaf ears or they dig into their grudge, remember this, too, shall pass.
 
They may sound like platitudes, but they’re wonderful advice and I believe words to live by.
 
Mindfully yours,
 
Adriane