It's not the first time it's happened and it won't be the last!
I was making plans with my friend, Linda, for our monthly Under the Moon Dance Party (let me know if you want me to write about that). Linda (aka DJ Boom Kitty) is our #1 most requested DJ, so it's important she can attend. We are looking for acceptable dates - when the text photo you see below unfolds...
Now, to 'curl', for those of you in locales where you do not have the pleasure of curling, here is the Wikipedia definition... 'Curling is a game in which players slide stones on a sheet of ice toward a target area which is segmented into four concentric circles.'
As with many things in life, it's yawn for some and amazing for others.
Anyway...
I read Linda's text and after the word 'curl' I filled in 'on the couch together and don't make other plans'.
Which means I read, 'On Friday nights we (she and her hubby) curl up together and don't make other plans.'
Isn't it sweet (and completely incorrect) what I made up?
Which explains my 'That's sweet!' reply.
Don't ask me why my brain filled these words in when she explained what she was doing, but it made me think of how often I fill in the blanks, jump to conclusions, and make unfair assumptions.
Is it because I am distracted? Am I doing too many things at once? Do I have my own agenda? Cue the endless list of reasons.
Is it just me or have you done things like this, too?
This example ended up with me laughing my way through an audio message to tell her about my error and both of us getting a chuckle, but it doesn't always end up so well.
Hurt feelings, damaged relationships and errors, are just some of the consequences.
Now...your life, your version, your plan...
How can you be more present?
When, specifically, do you need to slow down?
What might you need to clarify?
Perhaps reread the incoming messages and your outgoing ones, too.
And for the love of the wee donkey, please assume the best of people.
I invite you to join me as I strive to up my communication a notch.
Cheering for you, as always, Steph : )
PS - I'm 'appearing' in a rare public event in Victoria, BC - Love, Laughter & The 'Try' Angle - It will be an awesome experiential gift - I hope you can attend if you are in the neighborhood! https://marywinspear.ca/event/stephanie-staples
OR book me to come to your city in 2024 - just click reply!
Meanwhile...
On the Road with Steph - In search of good stuff edition...
