Cruising

Jump to Comments

 

Tonight, I was cruising down the street hurrying to get to my son and anxious to get around a slower moving vehicle to my goal. A driver beside me seemed to read my need and backed down his speed, allowing me to move in front of him to pass the slow poke.

I was indebted Actually, I was amazed and indebted! So, I lifted my right hand to wave “thank you”, but I’m not sure I communicated my intent. You see, I was holding my phone in my hand, so in an effort to not drop it as I waved, I maintained a firm grip. Then, in a split second I realized that every finger stayed on my phone – except my middle finger. “No! That’s not what I meant! I’m not flipping you off!” I thought. I scrambled to get another digit in the air and realized I had gestured the “peace” sign. Again, not exactly what I intended, but better.

Communication is tricky. It requires focus… Being Intentional.

And like it or not, much of our conversation is on the fly. It’s in the hallway. It’s in a quick email. It’s an off-the-cuff response.

I need to think about what the person needs to hear.  I need to think about whether I’m building up or tearing down. And empty my hands if I’m  gesturing endearing, grateful signals.

It’ll help.

3 Comments

Filed under Life