Wisdom Journal

Thursday, August 16, 2007

Wisdom Homework: To observe noise (trying to give advice) in conversation, do an annonymous good deed that the recipient will use, and journal outcome.

Observation:

I kept thinking what I'm thinking is Noise as Susan talks, and I can see how she has a conversation that loops into what she wants to talk about - what's truly important to her, her daughter leaving for Korea last night. I try to differentiate between noise and perpetration withhold and realize that it's all noise. Nothing I can say forwards anything or makes the difference. This is a disappearing conversation. I notice that I want to say something that shows I know my stuff (she's my mentor teacher, department lead) and have to refrain because I can see it's like being one up on someone.

It's hard to break the pattern, habit of noise making, and I find myself slipping, catching myself erupting noise and immediately see the impact it has on relatedness - we aren't. The empowering habit is being present in my listening.

Annonymous Good Deed
Today, I looked for ways to contribute anonymously, and could not see an opening. Yesterday was easier, let someone cut in traffic. In fact, today, I cut off someone and then realized that I could be gracious and let someone in as a good deed. After thought. Perhaps I might pick up post it notes and pop them on secretary's desk, thank you cards, something to slip on their desk? Maybe put something on the parked car window that would make a difference? Wondering what could I do to generate a "Pay it forward" motion.

All is well.