Communication is an act or instance of transmitting; a verbal or written message; a process by which meanings are exchanged between individuals through a common system of symbols; a technique for expressing ideas effectively(as in speech), and the technology of transmission of information.(Webster's Seventh New Collegiate Dictionary).
I have observed that one of the most problematic hurdles for mankind is verbal communication. Do we always mean what we say? Do we always say what we mean? In either situation, are we truly understood? Do we or should we really care? I'm convinced that we should care and realize that communication is the catalyst for human development as well as survival. Even when/if we're alone; we internalize, we reminiscence, we entertain the past and often make decisions based on what we've been told(personally) or heard someone say. Communication is an essential commodity. A gift from God.
It has been established there're many types of communication. However,at this time, I will briefly discuss two types; visual and verbal, in effort to shorten my observation and limit research on this topic.
Visual communicators often consist of our fashions, fads, hair styles, what we drive, where we live, where we shop and who our social associates may be. Also where we work, what we earn and what position we hold. We chose to select whatever means of expression that will make for our approval within an environment, a relationship, and society as a whole. We have desires for acceptance, so we strive to relate through the use of external/visual communicators. We want to look the part. We wear many faces to appear to have arrived. We can choose to change whenever the trend changes and we're hardly noticed.
Verbal communicators consist of two or more people who simultaneously use words to express their thoughts, interests, feelings, desires, opinions, and ideas. These are orally expressed. We talk about what lies within the heart. Unlike visual communicators; words have a lasting affect that sets standards, limits, and boundaries. This type of communication takes precedence over all. Verbal communication is a flow of words that're propelled by the tongue through the mouth from the heart and reaches the soul of man. Once words leave the mouth they establish an affect. Therefore, it is essential that we choose to use our words with wisdom and care.
"If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check. The tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts." (James 3:2,5).
Words carry with them the power of healing or a destructive capacity. Whatever we say makes a lasting impression. Let's be careful about what we say and how we say it. We must use God given wisdom when speaking to His people. "The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him." (Matthew 12:35). "The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell."(James 3:6). "Men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned." (Matthew 12:36-37).
Before we say it; let's examine to see if it will edify, if it's true and if it's necessary---if not all three---let's not say it.
It's better to bite your tongue than to let your tongue bite someone else. (Our Daily Bread, July,2008).
A careless word may kindle strife,
A cruel word may wreck a life,
A timely word may lessen stress,
A loving word may heal and bless.(Anon)
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