Open & Honest Communication

One of my many teachers, Richard Buckley, once said, “Most of the problems in this world stem from lack of open and honest communication. Most misunderstandings, and certainly conflicts, could be avoided if we were quick to acknowledge that we screwed up to those effected. Even more problems could be eliminated if we could quickly inform those that do us wrong of their misdeed.”

How many times did someone slight us but we remained quiet, only to hold a resentment because we did not speak up? Resentments are wonderful, but only if you enjoy holding onto energetic poison. A resentment is simply one choice you can make. I’ve learned to speak up immediately when that budding resentment begins to whisper in my ear with its forked tongue. An effective and civil way to put someone on notice can be achieved by a simple statement like this: “I don’t appreciate what you just did, and I would like you to refrain from doing that to me again, please.”

This month’s letter was inspired by a new friend that to my surprise, recently posted on Facebook that she enjoys our conversations. The best thing about this friendship is that because we are open, honest and vulnerable, we reap countless rewards. She and I learn much from each other because every contact with every human being is an opportunity for growth and the fulfillment of desire—we only have to be alert to the opportunities through increased awareness. Open and honest communication opens the channels to realize those opportunities.

It took me a long time to arrive at this point because for most of my life I was busy playing many roles. I was the sales guy, and later I became a marketing guy. I had one persona at my office job, a different persona with old friends, and yet another version of me for the customers at our former restaurant. Those closest to me would sometimes get to see the worst of me because that’s who typically gets to see more of our shadow side.

I’ve changed a lot in recent years, and now everyone gets one version of me—an authentic, engaging, fun-loving good guy that brings you this powerful magazine each month.

It appears that many changes are occurring around us daily and these can be very challenging times; but the less we resist change, the better. The world is moving into a brave, new direction. Where do you see yourself in it? Love or in fear? It’s simply a choice. I choose love.

Jerry & Pat Hocek, Publishers