for a long time, lots of extra work went into being easy going and exceptionally low maintenance. that led to a habit of holding thoughts and ideas instead of sharing them-- or excessively cushioning my opinions to make them more comfortable for those around me.
but experience has taught me that opinionated and decisive are not the same as contrary and confrontational. when our thoughts are delivered with kindness, humor, and goodheartedness, our truth is clear, uncluttered, centered, and more likely to be heard. if we heap hurt, fear, and resentment onto our message, it won't be delivered the way we originally intended, nor received the way we hoped. a simple, logical notion that is understandably hard to remember in a heated moment charged with feelings.
yes, there are times we should agree to disagree. but today's french phrase du jour meaning "i guess so" read like a passive shrug of the shoulders, and reminded me that opinions and thoughts are fluid and constantly changing, and how that change is an essential part of growth.
letting ourselves flow mindfully along with them keeps our hearts open to discovering that what is true is not only a matter of honesty or sharing, but one of compassion and respect for what's happening inside and all around us...