#mythical reality

[geodesandmore]

[ramble-onward]

Communication does not mean shoving your opinion down someone's throat

I am a quiet person. I don't like shouting. And when people get fired up about something, it can walk a fine line between passionate and intimidating. I've been in several situations where I am in a group and people are getting a good discussion going. But I refuse to interrupt people or talk over them. So, most of the time I just get to sit quietly and be talked over. And.... it's not ideal, but I'll take what I can. I can usually continue the discussion for a little bit with someone afterwards anyway. However. People should really learn how to be positively responsive to others in a discussion. Don't run on with your ideas. Have a point and get it said. Don't interrupt others. Give what they are saying at least a moments consideration. Try to interpret their ideas in your view and see where they are coming from. Communication is a 4 way stop with three lanes and A LOT of people who California stop. But it can be managed. You just have to listen and be heard. It can be really hard to control yourself, I know. And it can be really easy to get carried away and excited and just start shouting "I KNOW" at each other when you are agreeing. But that doesn't mean that you should. Roll it back a bit, and keep the energy but don't let it get too strong. It'll grow until it bursts and then you'll just be left with an empty balloon. And if you disagree? DON'T LET IT TAKE OVER. Hear it out, give it a moment to discuss, and then lock it up for a later time. Don't forget it, don't dismiss it, don't ignore it. You can be firm in your opinion and let the other person have their view too. You don't need to convert everyone, and you probably shouldn't either. But everyone has a different view, a different truth, and it harms you and them to dismiss their reality because it isn't yours. You can AGREE TO DISAGREE. People can still be friends even though they don't have the same favorite color. And, yeah, people will disagree with me on ALL OF THIS. I am not omniscient. I am not perfect. But communication is something I am working on and it sucks when I see people who start shouting at each other in the middle of a great discussion. And not in a good way. And not stopping. .....and if you think shouting is the way to go? Agree to disagree.