Truthfully Speaking

In my limited time to visit other blogs these past few weeks, I’ve noticed a minor topic trend: speaking the truth and/or speaking positively.

The first post in this regard came from Christine Kane.  In late October she posted on going complaint free and encouraged her readers to join in.  This is truly a challenge and a good one.  Christine also recently posted a few solutions for those of us finding it difficult to remain complaint-free.

Alyson Stanfield also posted on ArtBizBlog on speaking truthfully and using kind words; so essential today.

Both posts reminded me about the yoga of speech; that is, to become conscious of what comes out of your mouth.

In the first step of becoming conscious of what you say, try to notice not just what you say but how you say it (i.e. the tone of voice.)  Do your words create emotional residue?  How do you feel after certain remarks?  How do other people react?

The second step involves self-inquiry.  Ask yourself “what makes me say what I say?”  Unexpressed anger, grief, or longing?  Do your words mask what you really want to say?  How do your words affect people?

Remember the saying “If you can’t think of anything nice to say, don’t say it?”  The yoga of speech offers these three questions to ask yourself before you speak:

Is this true?
Is it kind?
Is it necessary?

By asking yourself these three questions, especially in the heat of a conversation, you give yourself pause.  In the silence of this moment you empower yourself; you empower your speech.  And out of this silence you may find wisdom.

To read more about the yoga of speech, visit here