We all probably have a horror story or two about a call
center experience. So, imagine my
surprise when I had not one, not two, not three, but four positive call center
experiences in the span of about ten days.
As I hung up the phone after each call, I was filled with peace and
calm. The person’s stance at the other
end of the phone conversation shifted my mood. The power we have to positively
and negatively impact another’s day was evident to me.
My mind flashed to the faraway days of chain emails. One of the emails shared told the story of a
young man who had his arms filled with books as he left school. Of course, as luck would have it, he dropped his
books. They scattered. Another thoughtful student helped him pick up the
books. They discovered many
commonalities as they chatted. The
second student invited the first home to play video games. That was the beginning of a friendship that
spanned their remaining high school days and beyond.
Graduation came and with it a confession from the first
student. On that day several years
before, he had cleaned out his locker and was going home to commit
suicide. The student didn’t want his
parents to have to clean out his locker. The words and actions of the second
student brought hope to the first. Both
students lives were radically changed through the actions and words of
compassion.
I cannot look at my interactions with others with
indifference any more. I no longer look
at my words as casual banter or meaningless drivel. My words give voice to my choice — I can
soothe and bring joy or I can trigger a more negative reaction. While I realize that it is not my
responsibility as to how another reacts to my words, it is my responsibility to
use words that soothe in compassion filled ways.
In this moment and in the moments that follow, notice the
choices you make with each utterance.
Peace & Joy, Vanessa
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