We have become texting machines rather than actually speaking to one another. Texting is fine for a quick check-in, but it’s not the same as having a conversation. Plus there is much that can be misinterpreted in a text, even a simple one.
Communicate with others. Have real conversations. Connecting is key to forming relationships with our fellow man. We are better together, and we are more alike than we are different…
When you hear someone described as “spirited,” what type of person comes to mind? Perhaps lively, engaging, emotional or energetic are appropriate descriptions.
All of those adjectives can apply to describe a spirited person. But let’s examine this a little more.
When we are making an observation or even a joke, the spirit of our words is the most important aspect of what we say. If our joke is mean-spirited, then it’s in poor taste. The same goes for conversation.
Pay attention to the spirit of your words and actions. They come from within and reveal what is in your heart…
In The Book of James, Verse 1:9 the author tells us to “be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to get angry.” Over the next few days we will examine this a little further.
James was the half-brother of Jesus. In his letter to the church of Jerusalem, we are encouraged to be “quick to listen.” I interpret this to mean listening should be our first choice when interacting with other people. How many times have I barely heard my counterparty because I wanted to get my voice heard? Too many to count…
Listening is an art form, and to really listen is exhausting. Listening is a verb, an action word. And when you rearrange the letters in the word “listen,” you get “silent.” This is not a coincidence.
More tomorrow…
It seems our society has devolved into a culture of rudeness. People hide behind computer screens and say some ugly things to others with no repercussions. Politeness has always been admired by us in books, movies and in real life, so how did we get here?
People are stressed to the max. The cost of living has skyrocketed, everyone is in a rush, and we don’t have time to be polite. Yet, I say we do have time. We just don’t make the time.
Slow down a little. Make the time to connect with others. Be kind and polite, even to those who don’t deserve it. They probably need your kindness the most…
People need to be seen and heard. That’s universal. We want to feel recognized, like we matter.
Relationships suffer when one person is feeling neglected or taken for granted. Their sense of importance has been diminished. This can become a never ending spiral downward.
Take the time to show people you care. Your outpouring of loving kindness will be reciprocated. And you will receive more than you give…
If someone asked you to define yourself, what would you say?
We have a tendency to describe ourselves in terms of our careers, our position in life, or maybe our accomplishments. While I believe those things have value, they don’t define who we are. We are way more than that.
The lasting impressions we leave have real meaning. We are here to reach and impact others. People are important. All people. Let’s strive to make a difference in the lives of our fellow man…
Jesus was a rebel. He stood up to the hypocrites in the synagogue which no one dared to do. Jesus redeemed and restored people who felt isolated, alone and cast out from society. Jesus performed countless miracles, yet never did a miracle that benefited himself.
Jesus is the most unique person who ever lived. He was 100% man while being 100% God at the same time. He got tired in the same way humans do, and he controlled the stormy sea. He restored eyesight to the blind, raised the dead and willingly died on the cross to save the world.
It’s interesting to note that his own half-brother, James, did not believe that Jesus was the Messiah until after the resurrection. Jesus’ disciples were persecuted and most of them died horrible deaths. You don’t die for a lie…
When you approach life unguarded, you will be amazed at how much deeper your connections with others are. By being open and transparent you encourage others to be the same. Your vulnerability allows them to feel safe and trust you.
Try it. Do not concern yourself with judgement. People are judging anyway. Be open…
Do you look people in the eyes when you speak to them? Eye contact is a subtle, yet important way to recognize people, to make them feel important.
Everyone wants to feel seen and heard. When we make the effort to make and hold eye contact, we give them the recognition they want.
Focus on whoever you are engaged with. Consider them to be the only person in the world during that moment. Watch what happens…
It seems we have a shortage of good men in the world. The rapid rise of fatherless homes has created a crisis of identity for young boys.
What does a man look like? He is responsible, accountable and unselfish with his time. He is the last one to be served because he serves others. He is defined by his character and integrity, both of which are unshakable.
We need men to stop abandoning their responsibilities. It’s fun to be the “Disney Dad,” but our young people need more. I encourage you to ascend to the challenge…
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