Most of you are aware that I am the reluctant owner of a stray donkey named Flash.
Don't ask, it's a long story. There are a bunch of tales about him here on my blog, and you can read them when you have some time to invest in a sweet, albeit stubborn, character. Make yourself a cup of coffee and get comfy.
Today, though, I want to tell you about what that donkey said.
(cricket, cricket)
Well, he said......nothing. Donkey's don't talk much.
But he communicated a lot.
Flash doesn't have to say a word, in order to get his message across.
Examples:
Turning his rather large rump directly in my face means, "I'd like a butt scratch. Now." (I always oblige, because really, I have no choice.)
Both ears forward: "I'm interested in what's going on. Is there food involved?"
Both ears back: "I'm not happy." (Always wise to stand back)
One ear forward, one ear back: "I'm an enigma, shrouded in donkey mystery." (OooKaaay)
Both ears drooped: "Time for my mid late-morning nap, which I must fit in before lunch and my early afternoon nap." (Don't interrupt)
Flash has taught me the value of what can be communicated without saying a word.
For example:
"You aren't that important," is easily communicated when I am too busy multi-tasking to stop and listen.
I know exactly how to communicate "not tonight, dear," by putting on my worst sweatpants and baggy shirt to sleep in. (Works like a charm!)
"I'm not that interested," can be said by pulling out my phone and scrolling through emails when my child is trying to tell me something.
Oh mercy, those examples were all so negative, Rachel. How 'bout some happy ones?
I can communicate "I love you," by baking my son's favorite cookies when he is home.
I say, "You are precious to me," by sitting on the floor and talking with my daughter about anything that comes to mind.
"I appreciate how hard you work," gets said when I take something off my husband's chore list.
Sometimes we think we are making ourselves clear by the words we use, when really, our actions are speaking louder than those words. My own biggest communication breakdowns happen when I am trying to do too many things at once. Sometimes, just slowing down long enough to make sure my actions match my words makes a world of difference.
Today's Small Thing (if you're new around here, welcome aboard my little assignments) is to communicate a positive message without saying a word.
Find a way to say "I love you," or "I value you," or "I'm available," with your actions. How creative can you be? Do you know your loved ones' love languages?
What is one thing you can do that will speak joy into someone's life?
I'd love to know what you're "speaking" today! Let me know in the comments below.
Love, Rachel Anne
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