Quite often, I will be communicating with other people... you know? The usual conversation. And something niggles deep inside that they're trying to say something without really saying what they mean. I've still not come to understand why people dance through the tulips rather than just coming out and clearly stating what needs to be said or what their concern was.

This week, I heard yet again how my intensity and closeness (intimate space) has thrown off three or four different people. Instead of these individuals coming to me and saying what they felt, the gossip and another comes forward with the comment. This in a neighborhood, not an office environment; instead, it's happening in a casual friendship circle setting. Huh! Some friendships!

In this situation, I task each individual to take Full Responsibility for themselves. Speak up! You have no business and no right to gossip and slander people from your own place of fear and discomfort without speaking with the offender. It could be a misunderstanding! It could be your own fear is where you discomfort comes from! What is under the fear and discomfort? What is it really about? 

If you have not had the conversation with the invidual who you feel caused the experience, you'll never know. It's amazing what can occur with that simple conversation! Awareness, insight, understanding, respect, not just of the other but also of yourself. Imagine how much you might grow from the experience. Imagine what Gold Nugget of personal awareness might set you free from some blockage that previously limited you.

You've heard it before, people come into our lives for a reason. What are you going to learn from them? What are they here to teach you? Those "trouble spots" that cause you fear, discomfort, annoyance, are great indicators to be watching for clues.

In another situation, the old codgers like to give out advice. Instead of giving it outright, I get the story in the form of a song, legend, or story. Again, I scratch my head wondering! What is the clue here that I'm supposed to pick up? I asked for the advice so I don't know why the seed has to be planted in such an indirect way. Why not just come out and say it? I know I'd appreciate it; it isn't as though I haven't already got enough on my mind.

So for Pete's sake folks! Speak and communicate clearly. If you still don't understand what the hell is going on, Keep Talking. Stay curious and keep communicating. You'll have far better relationships anyway if you do!