I am privileged to have been part of conducting a Christian Life Program in the area of Saguing (pronounced as Sagayn) in Myanmar. The experience of crossing cultural and language borders to deliver Christ's message is something I won't forget. When speaking, one has to be very concise and clear since it will still be translated. There is much need to communicate non-verbally, since actions like hand gestures and facial expressions can help in driving a point.
In communicating with others, specially to our loved ones, are we clear and concise? Are we masking or postponing the things we have to say? There are many things we do non-verbally that speaks out loud, yet the words that come out are very different from our actions. The east and west have very opposite approaches to communication. The west is straightforward, while the east is more conservative about opinions.
But regardless of cultural background, we need to pursue a one-on-one dialogue. The goals being; to clarify issues, to forgive and reconcile, and to facilitate healing. Many dialogues do not end well because of pride and pre- conditions.
Let us ask the grace from God to speak clearly and concisely that will translate to healing and love. For at the end of the day, this is really what we want.
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