"It's not so much knowing when to speak, but when to pause."
~ Jack
Benny
Hmmm.
Comedienne Benny's comment was probably about pausing to obtain the best laughter.
But pausing before speaking is wise in all types of communication.
Consider pausing and saying Hmmm in the midst of several conversations you have today.
Why?
Marriage counselor and author Kathlyn Hendricks recommends pausing and saying Hmmm not only because it can help us make time to respond with care rather than react, but also because saying Hmmm truly helps us to wonder, to consider, and to make room for possibilities.
Saying Hmmm conveys respect to the other person too. It's as if you are saying, "Let me
think about that."
When we pause and say Hmmm, we are sending a "Let me think about that" message to our own minds as well.
So whether a discussion is becoming heated or not, whether it is with a family member, friend, co-worker, neighbor, or stranger, try pausing and saying Hmmm from time to time.
You might be amazed as what
happens within yourself and in the conversation.
Blessings to all our conversations and relationships.
With love,
Charlene
