Communication breakdown

October 7, 2008

Alberta countryside</span>

Our server crashed this weekend, of course while we're 2,000 miles (or so) away from home. A friend went over today to fix it so I can finally post again. It's rather scary how much blogging means to me these days. It's how I communicate what is important to me through words and photos. Without this "outlet" I feel antsy and like all my feelings are bottled up. Now that's a really profound statement. Sounds like something women are notoriously known for saying to men, "don't bottle those feelings up inside".

I came to a blogging realization this weekend during a conversation with my sis-in-law. I admitted to her I feel I communicate better through blogging than real live conversation because when I blog I take the time to think about what I'm saying. I temper my strong beliefs, worldviews and values as I write and have less chance of hurting someone with what I say. Things can get a little out of hand when I start to actually speak.

I'm passionate about many things, it's hard to keep that enthusiasm to myself and I don't want my convictions to come across as criticisms. So, sometimes I'd just rather write than speak. It comes out better and truer to what I'm really trying to communicate.

My friend Emily at Journey Notes said it well on her blog this morning, with this quote from Robert McCloskey:

"I know that you believe that you understood what you think I said, but I am not sure you realize that what you heard is not what I meant."

And to my sis-in-law B., thanks for the great conversations. You are such a gracious person, trying to draw out the best in someone and understand their point of view. I have a lot to learn from you. Love ya lots!

Late season ladybugs</span>