If they would just listen to me, this conflict would… not be over.

Peacemaker Ministries just posted some excellent counsel. It’s mainly about why sending that lengthy, passionate email or letter is usually not the best way to resolve a conflict. But what struck me is the heart motivation behind it all (emphasis mine):

The desire to resolve conflict via the written word is usually rooted in two convictions: First, that we need to choose our words carefully (more carefully than we might in person), and second, that if we could just get the other person to listen carefully and attentively to our perspective, then the whole argument between us could be resolved. The first of those aims is laudable; the second is usually sadly mistaken at best and incredibly selfish at worst.

…Try sending a much shorter, kinder message that reaffirms the importance of the relationship in question and that invites further communication in person or by phone--communication in which you pledge to listen to the other party and to acknowledge your own contributions to the conflict.

I’m not in any conflicts at the moment, but next time I am, I’m sure I’ll be tempted to think that everything would be OK if the other person would just listen to me.

What a wonderful thing to have a Savior who is meek and lowly in heart, and who teaches us to be quick to listen and slow to speak.