Substance Is Sustenance

What can I say? I love substance in conversation and don’t get nearly as much as I would like. As my closest friends will attest, I love the carefully orchestrated gift of banter between people (especially two) who express passionate views of self and of the world at large. I respect individuals who are unafraid of being exposed and becoming vulnerable if only for a brief moment. It truly is a gift of nourishment for the mind to allow fresh thoughts and ideas from our friends to germinate and grow. These connections are what great relationships are made of, always aiding in our ability to see a diamond in the rough.

Opinions, insights, thoughts, questions, answers and even judgments are a declaration of compassion and care. They, on no uncertain terms, show at least an initial interest, which is how it all begins. Those short, effortless beginning statements become our creed, a choice we make, and a journey we travel together.

Yes, at times there might be stretching of the truth, a few calculated lies in route and free spirited thinking with a lack luster buffer of knowledge, but its at these times when golden opportunities present themselves to educate, foraging new territory into deeper thought. This permeable penetration into the cerebral cortex is where the real stuff occurs, allowing you to dive deeper into your subconscious to awaken your truest feelings, which will bring out the "real" you. This miraculous feat builds strong roots into the soul, so when the going gets rough, we aren’t so quick to jump ship, especially when words work against us (and they can, as I know all too well).

The aforementioned will feed into our education of life, creating less fear, keeping us steadfast and true and acquiescing on moments of withdrawal. All, no matter what, will usher in the evolution of change, which I believe is most often positive. (There are no one-way tickets or streets here. It’s all or nothing, especially if you want the truest of connections.) 

Sadly, on occasion I discover nervous ninnies deflecting simple words of engagement. Usually this is born out of anxiety of not presenting well, having limited vocabulary or not knowing current events.  All of us have something to say. We all have stories and memories that when told excite others and feeds into our happiness. Let’s face it, the more we tell, the happier we become. We must never be silent with our views. Share and share alike, with the understanding of agreeing to disagree.

Whether it is on one of my blogs, Twitter, Facebook, a conversation on a bus or in an elevator, etc., I talk and share my knowledge and insight with others, always aware of and welcoming the give and take. I am desperate for people to give more. I want to know what you think, especially when it comes to current events, books, music, etc.

We spend too much time bitching (yes, you read that right) about the small stuff, insignificant travesties and the mundane, forgetting about the real conversations that will inspire us throughout our lifetime.The more we talk, the better we relate. The more we learn, the more we improve. The better we sound, the more respected we become. All will lead to power you never knew you had. It will definitely improve your self-esteem.

Words of advice: don’t talk out of your ass, don’t respond to news snippets without knowing the full story (and even then it requires a bit more thought and reading, too), cultivate your communication endeavors by reading more, learning new words by working puzzles, playing games and simply studying the dictionary. With all I just said, know this, practice makes perfect. Don’t take it all so seriously. Using sarcasm because you feel uncomfortable will only work in your favor for so long. We all have a voice and a choice. Speak well, not swell, and always choose wisely. – paerki