Everyone has a story to tell.
Are we listening?
Today, let’s look at four talking tips from a hitch-hiker. It is an inspiring story happening over 2,000 years ago. Modern-day hitch-hikers use Uber or Lyft to get around town. In the few minutes, people are in my car I sometimes get to hear bits & pieces of their history. Usually, I greet them with; “good morning, how are you today”? Responses surprise me sometimes! “terrible”, “great”, “silence”. At times I hear a history of their last year in my 7-minute drive. Everyone has a story to tell, and most would like someone to listen.
There is usually a story within a story which is true in this narrative.
Look, for the four talking tips from a hitch-hiker in this scripture.
Philip, one of the apostles of Christ, could be the first hitch-hiker recorded in history.
Now, I would not even assume to say that the Apostle Phillip was trying to hitch a ride since he was explicitly told to “go over and walk beside the carriage” by the Holy Spirit. Aside from the beautiful spiritual transformation of the Ethiopian man, we can grasp insight on how to make the most of these chance meetings with people.
This story of Phillip changed the tale of a man and forever is inscribed in the Book for us to read today.
Stick with me here since I have discovered some good insight on how to kick up our conversations a notch.
Here are my four talking tips from a hitch-hiker for meaningful discussions with people, especially those we meet briefly.
- We have to make ourselves available to people. Phillip ‘ran over’ to the Ethiopian’s side of the road to be more accessible.
- Most people would like us to ask them to tell their story. “Do you understand what you are reading?” the Apostle said.
- We just might have to sit and listen to the person for some time. Phillip sat with the man in his carriage.
- This last point is the key; It helps to begin with where they are at in their story. Aha! Phillip did this; “so beginning with this same scripture.”
“A suffering person does not need a lecture – he needs a listener.”– Billy Graham
“The word ‘listen’ contains the same letters as the word ‘silent.’” – Unknown
Summing it up on the qualities needed to impact people’s lives are these: Making ourselves available, asking good questions, taking time to sit with the person and giving input beginning with where the person is in their discussion concerning themselves. I think, Phillip, the hitch-hiker did his part well, don’t you? Now it is our turn.
Most of us know what I shared here but hopefully, it serves as a reminder of four qualities needed in the communication toolbox we use every day. Perhaps 2018 is the year to really communicate!
Did one or two of the four tips resonate with you and in what way?
Did I miss something that you would like to add?
Any questions on this post?
Please leave a comment, I’d like to hear from you.
Richard
