Many believe we either espouse, retort,
respond instantly without thinking
in anger or in passion.
Obviously, they recommend against it.

They suggest we digest, and think
about what we’re about to say before we say.
So they say.

But the truth is,
it’s not just one or the other.
There is a third conscious option.
A more balanced and harmonious choice.
To be aware of what we are about to say.

It’s just that simple,
awareness is a reminder,
a soft touch towards the present,
to trust in our intuition,
which comes from our gut.
That’s our intuition,
not our instinct, as some call it.

This simple active awareness,
is intentional, purposeful, deliberate,
yet honest and genuine.
It is naked truth.

A gentle reminder,
an awareness of the
meaning and power of our words.
No need to analyze, overthink,
nor blurt, respond by default in a reflex.

Simply pause to be aware
of the words we speak, to create.

The Art of Mindful Speech

You know, life often throws situations at us where we feel compelled to react immediately. It’s like our words are trying to race out of our mouths before we’ve even had a chance to think. And sure, some folks will tell you to take a deep breath and count to ten before you speak. That’s not bad advice, but there’s more to it than that.

This poem touches on something really profound – the power of mindful communication. It’s not just about holding back or overthinking every word. There’s a sweet spot right in the middle, and that’s where the magic happens. It’s about being aware – truly aware – of what you’re about to say.

The ancient Stoic philosopher Epictetus once said, “We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak.” This poem takes that wisdom a step further. It’s not just about listening more, but about being more conscious of our own speech.

Think of it like this: your words have power. The linguist Benjamin Lee Whorf proposed that language shapes our perception of reality. So when you speak, you’re not just communicating – you’re shaping the world around you. That’s why this poem suggests being aware of what you’re about to put out there.

Now, let’s talk about that intuition the poem mentions. Psychologist Carl Jung described intuition as perception via the unconscious. It’s not just instinct or reflex; it’s a kind of wisdom that comes from a deep place within you. When you tap into that, your words come out clearer, truer, and often kinder.

This awareness the poem talks about, it’s like what mindfulness expert Jon Kabat-Zinn describes as “paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally.” It’s a gentle tap on the shoulder. It reminds you of the impact your words can have.

You don’t need to overthink it, and you definitely don’t need to bite your tongue all the time. Just pause, ever so briefly, and let that awareness guide you. The philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein said, “The limits of my language mean the limits of my world.” By being more conscious of your words, you’re expanding those limits.

You’ll find that when you speak from this place of awareness, your words carry more weight. They’re more genuine, more thoughtful. And you know what? People notice that. They respond to it. It’s what the philosopher Martin Buber might call moving from an “I-It” relationship to an “I-Thou” relationship – one of genuine dialogue and connection.

So next time you’re in a heated moment or a tricky conversation, remember this: you have the power to choose your words consciously. It’s not about holding back or letting loose. It’s about finding that balance where your words truly reflect the best of who you are.

Trust me, with a bit of practice, this becomes second nature. And when it does, you’ll be amazed at how it changes your interactions, your relationships, and even how you feel about yourself. It’s a small shift, but it can make a world of difference.

Remember, every time you speak with awareness, you’re not just communicating – you’re creating. You’re shaping your world, one mindful word at a time. And that, my friend, is a beautiful thing.