03May
We have talked about when perception is not reality; now, let’s take a look at when perception is reality. Depending on the source, studies indicate that 70-80%+ of communication is body language. As noted in 5-2-20’s posting, it is easy to misunderstand what is behind our perceptions of others. When we sense something is amiss, and it is, how should we respond?
During my first year as a Senior Pastor, during a brief encounter with one of the members of our church, I “sensed” something was not quite right. No doubt, you have had a similar experience. There was not an overt statement or some disapproving look or gesture. We read these non-verbal responses at an almost subconscious level. But, read them, we do! “Is something wrong?” I queried. The one-word answer, “No,” did not convince me. I pressed further, “It seems like something is not right between us.” If I had an emotional Geiger counter, it would have redlined, as another brief denial followed.
Communication stalemate would best describe the encounter. I would find out later that there was something wrong. What I think now is that I probably tried too hard on too little information to force conversation. The encounter was not about being right, but about connecting. Communication is both art and science. Straightforward, clear communication is the science. The art is knowing when and how much of the “scientific” to dish out to facilitate connection. (Prov. 20:5)
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