Invitations can be tricky. Does one accept without hesitation? Should one consider what one is going to say? Will the venue be helpful in getting one’s message across? Yet, the idea of sitting away from it all and letting one’s point wither through neglect is rarely my first choice.
I find myself wondering how I communicate. Using marketing jargon – is the audience pulling me or am I pushing? Have I considered how the methods I use change the perception of the message itself? Do I think I am sharing my views or do I need to sell?
The questions multiply. Perhaps the heart of it all lies in my intent. What is it?
The puzzle can morph into a paralyzing mess of uncertainty. Alternatively, the decision can be simple. Is it a good idea? What am I trying to do? What do I think will happen? As I look at my heart’s answers, the fit (or lack of) with my values and priorities becomes clear.
As I consider the invitations to share that I have, I hope that I do not lose the truths traveling with any conversation.
Time and location matter. When a wisdom father passionately wanted to make a point, he did not give the audience the full presentation. He waited until there was an appropriate time and place. It happened when “people got together and asked him to make a public presentation over at the Areopagus, where things were a little quieter.” (Acts 17.19)
Content is important. Just because I believe, the point of my conversation is not always relevant. The language I use is not always universal. Thoughtfulness is important. Structure helps the one sharing as well as the listener.
Trust is required if the subject is important. I still catch myself assuming trust is present when I have not earned or asked for it.
Today is already unfolding, filled with invitations. Some are formal. Most are casual, incidental events. As tricky as the day may seem, in one way it is blindly simple. Sharing and learning are invitations to live.
