Respite Reflections’ purpose is to help people push the “pause” button in their transition work — to take a break from the thinking, researching, networking and preparing for interviews. Taking a moment to center yourself, ponder a positive thought, and focus on a broader perspective is invaluable during a time of transition.
“Nature gave us one tongue and two ears
so we could hear twice as much as we speak.”
– Epictetus
Certainly it is not bad to speak one’s mind. But when we are frustrated, confused, upset or distressed, sometimes we speak words we wish we had not spoken. It might then be time to remember the simple “words of wisdom” written above – that nature has given us twice as much ability to listen as to speak.
Whenever we are speaking, perhaps we should always be asking ourselves whether it is listening or speaking that is most called for in the moment. Especially when tempted to speak out in anger, may we use another notable gift we have been given – our great big brain – to remember that listening “before” speaking has often been considered a great virtue.
– Connie Popp
Dr. Connie Popp is a board member for The Center for Life Transitions as well as an active facilitator for the Center’s Life-SHIFT and Job Search Courage programs. She is also the Director of Campus Ministry at Alverno College in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Read more.