"Clarity inspires trust. Clarity inspires faith."  You, Inc. - by Harry and Christine Beckwith

I've been reading lately about public speaking. In the book You, Inc., there is a lot of advice about how to be more clear in writing and speaking. We should do both so that we cannot be misunderstood. Be crystal clear and people are more likely to trust you and have faith in you. According to this book, people on juries regard 'clarity' as the most important trait of a true expert. An ability to speak clearly, so people cannot misunderstand, is more important than awards and professional accomplishments. One of the things that I have learned in my midlife divorce recovery journey is that it's okay to say exactly what I mean. It's best to be clear about what I want ... in work, in dealing with my children, in talking with my ex-husband, in communicating with anyone. I used to kind of dance around tough issues. I didn't want to hurt anyone's feelings. I didn't want to put anyone on the spot. I wanted everyone to like me. The fact is, people like us better when we clearly say what we want and what we expect. It saves time and energy that is wasted later trying to sort things out and figure out what we really meant to say. Just think about what you want to say, then say it confidently and precisely. People like that. "Those who can express themselves in words that cannot be misunderstood have more power and more value." Today, let's all try saying what we mean straightforwardly, without embarrassment or fear, and let's see what happens.

"And don't say anything you don't mean. This counsel is embedded deep within our traditions. Just let your yes be yes and your no be no." James 33a;37a (The Message)