Period, But, and How Our Words Matter.

AHA'S AND ACTION:

Here are 2 thoughts, 2 inspirations, and 1 question for you to reflect on this week…

2 THOUGHTS FROM ME

1. I’ve started to really notice how often we use the word “but” to twist the meaning of what we just said. I’ll say something kind, something honest—and then add a “but” that turns the whole thing into a subtle correction or criticism. “I hear you… but.” “I love you… but.”

That tiny word often turns a statement of respect into a subtle lecture. It quietly shifts the energy from connection to control. What I’ve realized is that sometimes the most powerful and loving thing I can do is end the sentence with a period. 

This is how I feel: I love you. I hear you. 

If something is bothering me, I can share that too, just not at the same time. 

I am getting better at separating how I feel from any issues I may be having with the other person because the two are not related. 

2. I’ve come to see that real connection doesn’t come from saying the perfect thing—it comes from how I feel when I’m saying it. When I’m grounded in warmth and care, I don’t need to explain, justify, or manage the moment. I just speak honestly, and that feeling carries more weight than any well-crafted words ever could. When I feel close, I naturally communicate in a way that brings us even closer.

This is true in my relationship with Dave and every other person I speak with.

2 INSPIRATIONS FROM OTHER PEOPLE

1. “Raise your words, not your voice. It is rain that grows flowers, not thunder.” by Rumi.

2. "Speech that is truthful, kind, beneficial, and not agitating is considered the austerity of speech.” from The Bhagvad Gita.

1 QUESTION FOR YOU

1. Where in your communication might you be adding a “but”—and what would happen if you simply let your kind words end with a period?

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