Have you ever thought about the words you use in conversation and how they might be received when you talk? Our words can either draw us closer to someone or push us further apart. Although we may speak to each other in the same native language we interpret words based upon the lens of our background and experiences. And as a result, our words can either build bridges leading to understanding or chasms that deepen confusion.
So what can we do? Does it mean we have to police every word spoken? Absolutely not! But what it does mean is that we need to listen to each person’s heart. Sometimes I sit silently and listen to the conversations around me. What seems to happen more often as people talk is each person trying to get a point across (or talking at the other person) instead of listening to their heart (to build a bridge of understanding). What does it mean to listen to someone’s heart? I believe it means to listen to (and hear) the words that are not being spoken, the meaning behind the words chosen.
Yeah, I can hear it now. “That’s just too much work!” I believe its more work to try and clear up a misunderstanding that develops because we were speaking one thing and the person we were talking to was hearing another. Think back to a time when you were having a “heated” discussion with a friend. As you were talking, you sensed the emotions in the conversation ratcheting up a notch with each word. This wasn’t your intention, but it seemed like your friend just didn’t understand the point you were trying to make. The point you were trying to make was found in the words behind the words. It was the unspoken meaning in your heart.
I’m just as guilty as anyone else when it comes to needing to step back, take a deep breath, stop talking and listen to the heart of the person speaking to me. The next time you find yourself trying to get your point across, try this (and if you’re like me it won’t come natural the first time): stop talking and listen to the heart of the person speaking.
When I listen to someone’s heart I’m able to change the words that I use in my conversation with them to words that build bridges of understanding.
Connect…Inspire…Be Transformed!
Published by Linda Garrett-Johnson, The Word Applied, Inc.
Copyright© 2010 Linda Garrett-Johnson & The Word Applied, Inc., All rights reserved.
