Hurtful Banter..?
Sarcasm is something that some people consider to be ok to dish out “onto” others. In some circles it is looked upon as humor. Yes there is the “funning someone” type of banter, and there is the cutting, deeply hurtful type of “tearing at the heart”. Actually the definition of sarcasm is just that!
Sarcasm; verb
1. To tear at the heart.
2. To tear of the flesh.
We tend to communicate with others in the manner in which we were raised. Often sarcasm is something that we grew up with, or is part of a work environment and it has become a normal way to interact with one another. It may be considered normal and meaningless. But the truth is, it takes a thick skin to exist under such constant, subtle and covert attacks.
IF we are intending to live an authentic life it is essential to spend our time in environments that support our relaxation and openness; one that allows us to let our guard down and be all of who we are without the unconsciously nagging threat of being zinged by yet again another poison dart.
We can not control others and what they say to us. But we can look at how we speak to others and for that matter what we direct at ourselves.
Today I listen to what I speak outwardly.
Today I ask myself, “How would I feel if that were said to me?”
Today I take a pause and intentionally speak kindly to myself.
Today I apologize when I have stated something that is even the slightest bit hurtful.
Monday 09 Apr 2007 | Gayle | Daily Inspiration, Authentic Living