An unreliable messenger can cause a lot of trouble. Reliable communication permits progress. Proverbs 13:17 (Living Bible)
Just a quick thought today about communication styles. Did you ever notice that sometimes, conversations are easier side-to-side than face-to-face? Sometimes, it is easier to communicate walking together, or sitting in the car together than an intentional face-to-face meeting. Why is that?
Well, there can be a lot of reasons, but side-to-side communications can be more disarming and feel less threatening to people. There is a certain casualness and ease of talking when walking side to side. I sometimes tell couples, to take a walk together to communicate. This way they not only get the benefits of exercise, they get the value of easy communication.
By all means, there is tremendous value in eye contact when communicating. Yet, don’t discount the value of easy side-to-side communication, which can feel less intense. This is especially helpful when communication has been difficult for the couple. This style seems to be helpful also in communicating with teenagers, who dread the invitation of “we need to talk”.
So, just a thought today. Enjoy your talk!
Prayer: Lord, you have given us the gift of communication. Help us to use it wisely, Amen
Reflections of a Counselor 