I am praying that one day I can be as direct as the devotional states below. I want to be that good friend. Someone who does not use and suck the life out of people to feel good about themselves like I have in the past. To be honest and to be compassionate. To have others know where I stand all the time. How about you:
Direct people are a joy to be around.
We never have to guess what they're really thinking or feeling, because they're honest about their thoughts and openly express their feelings.
We never have to wonder if they're with us because they want to be, or if they're there out of guilt and obligation.
When they do something for us, we don't have to worry whether they'll end up resenting us because direct people generally do things that please themselves.
We don't have to fuss about the status of our relationship because if we ask, they'll tell us.
We don't have to worry if they're angry because they deal openly with their anger and resolve it quickly.
We don't have to ponder whether they are talking about us behind our backs because if they have something to say, it will be said to us directly.
We don't have to wonder if we can rely on them because direct people are trustworthy.
Wouldn't it be nice if we were all direct?
Today, I will let go of my notions that it is somehow good or desirable to be indirect. Instead, I will strive for honesty, directness, and clarity in my communication. I will let directness in my relationships begin with me.
From The Language of Letting Go by Melody Beattie ©1990, Hazelden Foundation.
You will, JBR, because you learn to be honest and compassionate to yourself.
ReplyDeleteI am sure that this book regards direct people as a good way to be. My thoughts on direct people is that they often say what they think without editing what they really want to say.
ReplyDeleteWhile I am a direct person, I often have spoke recklessly without thinking or editing and that has the potential to hurt someone. For me direct sometimes can be hurtful.
I would rather be a person that speaks from Love and from my heart than a direct person.
I enjoyed your previous post. So many good thoughts are working in you. I like what I am seeing happening to you. Your growth is amazing to say the least.
Blessings and much love to you.
Being direct is really challenging, but I also think it brings people together to know that the other person is not, excuse my language, bullshitting you. Of course I don't know you "in real life" but I think you are pretty direct on your blog-- you state what's on your mind with (seemingly) very little trepidation. That's a great step!
ReplyDeleteWishing you well,
NOS
Yes, that will be awesome if we are all that way. Sometimes, truth hurts but I'd rather have it come out of a friend's mouth than "sweet talk" from the enemies. Have a great weekend. God bless.
ReplyDeleteHow beautiful and true. Very seldom do we find this kind of honesty.
ReplyDeleteI am SO enjoying reading this book alongside you!!!!!
ReplyDeleteWow...what beautifully true words.
Yes, Lord, make me that direct too!
Help us both to have souls so in tune with yours that we're direct with you, ourselves and others
out of whole, healthy, joyful hearts!!!!!
-Jennifer
You are! JBR...Just Being Real...your honesty and straightforwardness just shine...
ReplyDeletegreat challenge...i value those that can be direct and compassionate with me...i have had to temper it with more compassion...
ReplyDeleteI agree that direct is a good thing... unless it comes with ignorance, then it can come across as just plain rude. Directness with love and patience is a great asset.
ReplyDeleteI do agree it is worth the pain no matter how long it takes.
ReplyDeleteI am working on JBR..Having been a quiet person it has been difficult finding my voice in a very loud world.
ReplyDeleteBlessings and love to you.
ReplyDelete