So … truth and grace

Let’s not be too hard on ourselves or others.

Sometimes we can’t tell if anyone is listening to our story. Sometimes we don’t listen. Not everything is happening according to any set of rules. Like when we prepare a meal of tacos, we sometimes forget an ingredient or two. We get all the parts right but in different orders. And that’s OK.

Context is everything. Depth of friendship makes story sharing interesting. The candlestick image reminds us that sometimes we are just lumps of brass and can’t engage and connect. Sometimes it seems like we are not engaging and connecting, but we really are.

On one hand, let’s not be too judgy or hard on ourselves. The truth is we are all on the learning journey so be gentle with ourselves and others.

Becoming the storytelling we were created to be will mean being intentional about using or excluding any of these aspects of storytelling mentioned above. It may include engaging “I wonder …” questions to help a listener connect the story with their story. It may mean asking for another story instead of jumping in with one of our own. All these choices are difficult to consider in the moment. The truth is it’s a tough gig. It will take some practice. It will take grace to forgive ourselves and others as we learn.

In the comment section, please feel free to ask a question, add an opinion, or share your own stories on your journey to appreciate ‘truth & grace’.

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