WHAT WAS THAT

I have found that sometimes I really have the need to read something about 2 - 3 times before I get what it is saying. As I also sometimes have to ask someone to repeat themselves a few times. Eventually I will get whatever it is they are meaning to say. It keeps me calm and can sometimes frustrates the person, but to get an understanding and learn not to have a total out of character moment we need to take the time and ask, What was that? My temper can get overwhelmed :-) sometimes when I am extremely tired. So taking a deep breath and saying What was that; just to make sure I will not overreact in situations that require prayer or mediation or even my complete disregard at times is very helpful to reduce stress.

Sometimes speaking before we think makes things come out wrong and because we are listening for a response and not to what we just said, we are not aware of how it sounded. As a general statement, "thinking before we speak"; we can also add "listen before we respond". Listening to get a clear understanding can keep peace and allow for much better moments. The listener has to take the time to quickly evaluate what the speaker is really trying to say. Especially if we want to have better days, moments, friendships, relationships, etc. Fights, resentment, discouragement, and even hatred can come from the best of misunderstandings. From time to time, ask yourself, What was that? Even if you are the one speaking.

Take care of your mind and heart.

ref: Proverbs 14:23