Bad Connections

It was one of those newspaper headlines you never forget: "Local pioneer in good health at the time of his death."

I couldn't help but wonder - if he was in such good health, why was he dead?

I'm sure the reporter didn't mean it the way it sounded. But miscommunications do happen. Someone says or does something that doesn't come across quite the way it was intended.

It's like wat sometimes happens at drive-through restaurants. You order a cheeseburger, fries and a Coke, but the server hears a fish sandwich, onion rings, two tacos and a chocolate shake.

Communication is important. It's important to speak clearly and listen carefully. Wars have broken out because of mere understandings. Friendships have been ruined, and over time marriages have failed because someone wasn't listening closely enough or communicating his or her thoughts clearly.

So before you respond, make sure you not only heard what was said, but also what was meant. And when you speak, make sure you're saying what you want to say.

After all, unless you're trying to rebuild the Tower of Babel, there's no reason not to communicate.

Thoughs to Ponder:

Have you ever misunderstood something that someone said?

Has someone ever misunderstood what you were trying to say?

Why do you thing it's important to listen to each other

Bumper Sticker for the Day:

A bad connection can create a lot of static in your life.

Scripture to Stand On:

"He who answers before listening - that is his folly and his shame." Prov.18:13

Hello Again, Lord...

Lord, help me to communicate better with those around me, and more often with You.

Martha Bolton