Well-Spoken Words (II)

~ By Ajahn Jayasāro ~

𝗖𝗶𝗿𝗰𝘂𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲

We ask ourselves if this is the right time and place to have this conversation. We consider, for example, how much time is available, whether it is better to speak in private or in the presence of others, whether our mental state is conducive to speaking well. Is the other person in the right frame of mind to listen to our words? Timing is crucial in so many important matters. Speaking about a sensitive topic out of impatience, before we have all our facts straight, can undermine the other person’s confidence in our trust-worthiness and good-will; and may go on to jeopardise future communication. Repeatedly putting off a painful conversation because of fear of what may result may lead to a bad situation becoming worse, or even reaching a state beyond remedy.

𝗧𝗿𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗳𝘂𝗹𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀

We train ourselves to speak from the heart. We tell the truth as we see it, always open to the possibility that we have got something wrong. We don’t exaggerate in order to look good, or for the sake of laughter. We don’t omit anything that the other person has a right to know, even if it may be embarrassing. We may prefer to keep certain matters private but we do not deliberately mislead others in order to protect that privacy. We aspire to be trustworthy and reliable.

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For other teachings by Ven. Ajahn Jayasāro, please visit the Panyaprateep Foundation website.