So many mismatches in communication can be traced back to wrong and misinformed presumptions and assumptions. We need to always take a step back, clear the air, check the facts and make sure when we start important communications, we understand the premises of the receiver. If we are the sender of the message, does the receiver really understand the basic premise upon which we speak?
The who, what, why, when and how are often not clarified up front. Are we seeking clarity? Are we wanting to fully understand? What is our motive? Are we listening or are we whistling and toe tapping while having to wait for the ‘opponent’ to finish up his/her diatribe?
Vitriolic dialogue achieves nothing. Are we wanting to achieve peace without compromise? Are we wanting to hear the heart, not just the words, of our ‘opponent’? Is it a tennis match? If it is, then an ace achieves nothing. We need a fair and enjoyable rally. Just because we might have a different view, does not mean we hate the messenger. We simply agree we respect each other no matter what their view may be.
We can love the person but not all their beliefs and philosophies. This means we honour a person because they are a human being, a member of the family of God, who deserves respect no matter their views. Respect breeds respect.
Therefore, it is important to take the higher ground. We can keep our own counsel but maintain the relationship because every human being is worth it.