Use Your Words

Oh, how I have struggled with this particular topic ad nauseam. Admittedly, I have a difficult time speaking and genuinely expressing myself, for I am always conscious of what the other person is thinking of me. And, when I do speak, my words trip over themselves in an undisciplined manner. Attencion!

To further complicate matters, this little noggin of mine is crammed and cluttered, filled with all my thoughts and feelings waiting for that perfect uncomplicated moment to be me.

I’m fine with the simple everyday pleasantries and inquiring about the weather. That’s where I soar. Like it or not, my gauge is consistently set on autopilot where I can be spotted cruising at a conversational altitude somewhere between predictable and safe. Some turbulence is necessary to keep the human spirit aloft.

“Ladies and gentlemen this is your Captain speaking. We are currently flying at an altitude of 30,000 feet. Your estimated time of arrival is 5:50 p.m. San Francisco time. It’s been a pleasure flying with you today, and as you depart please remember to use your words!”

Now, I can’t take full credit for that last bit of parting advice. I once briefly dated a man, who over dinner one evening, compassionately told me to use my words. I’ve been trying to ever since.

Sometimes I hit the rivet on the head, where the conversation is flowing and I’m in absolute alignment with all that I am. More often than not, I’m going through the motion and not revealing who I am by saying what I think the other person wants to hear.

“Excuse me. I don’t mean to eavesdrop, but did I overhear what I think you thought?”

“Yes, but how can you hear my thoughts?”

“The air is a bit thinner up here, which makes them more transparent. Now, I have to ask, why in heaven’s name would you do something like that, saying what you think the other person wants to hear?”

“Because I want people to like me?”

“I’m sorry, your thoughts just went in and out. What was that you said?”

“Because I want people to like me!”

“Well, that’s just no way to conduct your past, present, and future lives. Have I covered all dimensions? As the Captain said, using your words means you can use your words to soothe, acknowledge, describe, inform, uplift, advise, express, emote, and create humor if you so desire.”

“You mean to say a conversation can contain more than the words; oh, mm hmm, really, and is that so?”

“Absolutely! Do you know how many words make up the English language? Why approximately 171,500 words. Why limit yourself to a select few when the word is your oyster!”

“I think you meant to say, ‘when the world is your oyster.’”

“No, I meant exactly what I said. Just think of the life you can create for yourself when you speak in a manner that reflects all that you are.”

“We seem to be doing that right now.”

“And look, the color is returning to your face. I’d say it’s safe to remove your oxygen mask. Some sparkling water?”

“Yes, please. You know, I’m glad you heard my thoughts. This has been a most enjoyable flight. Before I catch a cable car, I have one last question to ask.”

“I already have the answer!”

“I’d like to know where I have been all these years . . . conversation-wise.”

“Oh, that’s easy. You were simply asleep at the control wheel. Enjoy your stay.”

Wake up and use your words.