Editorial
Finally, (part 3 in the ad hoc series) you should, in the best way possible, respond. ' To respond means to say or do something as a reaction to a person, action, event, or force. It can mean giving an answer in words, reacting physically, or showing a positive change when treated.' (google ai summary definition) If you took time to listen after you stopped talking, you may find that a proper response to the conversation, be it in person, live or on some social media site, is in order. The response very well may be silence or just walk away. It is not always easy for some to just walk away, just as it is to keep our mouth shut.
It takes two ears to listen and hear what others are saying. It takes two eyes to see everything we need to see. Two eyes gives us depth perception, giving us the ability to navigate without hurting ourselves. Two ears gives us perception of where sound is coming from. However, it might be a sign we need to listen more than speaking. It takes all our senses to interpret the communication others are trying to convey.
Depending on the situation, our response may need to be done in a timely manner. A simple touch may calm a weary soul when no words needed. Can you determine when you should just be there and not say words. Or, there may need to be a word of encouragement when an obvious failure has taken place. When there is a need correction or gently guidance can be useful. We tend to overuse this because we don't listen enough to understand the real need.
Response for correction is always better when it is done in the most redemptive and gracious possible manner, and timing is everything.
All this has been said and shared because of a needed response to, not just one but several situations. I can imagine the situations you are now thinking about. And, if you have any particular one in mind, it might be what needs to be responded to, not by me, but by you. Every day a new one pops up and needs to be responded to in the most appropriate way.
We listen. We speak. We respond. It doesn't stop there. We must always be attentive to the voices around us. We must always be ready to give a kind word to one in need. We must be ready to defend, if needed, and heal when able.
From our family and friends to foreigners and foes, we will respond and be responded to. There is a time to speak and a time to be silent. Knowing that time is a sign of wisdom. Being able to respond in the right way is a sign of courage. Being consistent in both is integrity.
Our country needs people with integrity who have wisdom and courage. That person is you, or should be.
