Several weeks ago, a friend of mine sent an article called “Proof and Art of Persuasion”. Within a few seconds, without my knowledge, a bias within me began to grow. It took an entire day, as I continued to reflect on why I had difficulty reading the article, to realize what had happened. Apparently, I’ve always sensed a negative connotation with the word “persuasion” and the author’s choice of describing it as an art made me livid.
Isn’t it interesting to recognize how unspoken words have an effect on another? What language would you say is universal to all? Would you say it is English? I don’t think so… since I’ve struggled communicating in English with some who are new to Canada. The language which I believe everyone, including animals, understands is body language. Based on my experience, even an infant is able to tap into the stress and tension when another is upset.
As we carry on in our daily lives, although we may not say much to another, how we carry ourselves as we “silently” mingle in and out of crowds speaks volumes. Do you make an effort to meet the glance of another? And when you do, do you immediately look away or do you pause and smile at the other? As a teller gives you your change and your receipt, do you hastily take them and walk off with your purchase without a word of gratitude? As you minister to another, do you speak and treat them with gentleness or do you speak from a spiritual superiority? Unfortunately, our actions or lack of them speak louder than our words.
In her latest conference, Sr. Ann Shields asks a powerful question… “What do people see when they see us as Christians? Do they see love? Do they see joy? Do they see courage, strength and hope in the midst of trials? In truth, it would be beneficial if we all seriously pondered over this.
I am reminded of the following story… “A driver did the right thing, stopping at the crosswalk even though he could have beaten the red light by accelerating through the intersection.
The tailgating woman behind him went ballistic, pounding on her horn and screaming in frustration as she missed her chance to drive through the intersection with him. Still in mid-rant, she heard a tap on her window and looked up into the face of a very serious police officer.
The officer ordered her to exit her car with her hands up. He took her to the police station where she was searched, fingerprinted, photographed and placed in a cell. After a couple of hours, a policeman approached the cell and opened the door. She was escorted back to the booking desk where the arresting officer was waiting with her personal effects.
He said, “I’m awfully sorry for this mistake. You see, I pulled up behind your car while you were blowing your horn, flipping the guy off in front of you, and cussing a blue streak at him. I noticed the “Choose Life” license plate holder, the “What Would Jesus Do?” bumper sticker, the “Follow me to Sunday School” bumper sticker and the chrome plated Christian fish emblem on the trunk.
“Naturally, I assumed you had stolen the car.””
Father, forgive us for not living transformed lives. Often times, we carry on like the rest of the world, without any indication that You live within us. Father draw us closer to You and give us the grace to delve deeper into Your Word so that we can live Your truth, Your joy… Your love. If not, the world will not be willing to listen when we are called to speak Your truth. Come Holy Spirit, fill us more with the Love of the Father so that we will be able to live the language of God… the language of love. In Jesus’ name, AMEN.
God bless,
Melissa – December 1, 2014
