I was recently recommended an incredible book titled "Peace Is Every Step" by Thich Nhat Hanh. The author has a way of inviting your mind to slow down and be present. While listening, I heard a portion of the book that struck me.
"The second thing to do is to try to bring out the best part in ourselves...to transform ourselves. When you have become fresh & pleasant, the other person will notice very soon. Then when there is a chance to approach that person, you can come to her as a flower, and she will notice immediately that you are quite different. You may not have to say anything. Just seeing you like that, she will accept and forgive you. That is called 'Speaking with your life' and not just with words."
I love this passage. Before continuing, I don't imagine the author is suggesting forgiveness as a guaranteed outcome or that our actions can produce instant results. I do believe that he is suggesting that the best outcomes happen when we, ourselves, become changed creatures. How often do we put the focus on our words instead of our actions? How often do we seek to be changed into something as lovely and gentle as a flower instead of talking our way through a situation?
I recognize plenty of space in my own life to Be different and rely less on words. How can you speak with your life?