An invitation
“A real conversation always contains an invitation. You are inviting another person to reveal herself or himself to you, to tell you who they are or what they want.” ~David Whyte
I love the way poet David Whyte reminds us that “real conversation” invites an honest exchange between people. But thanks in part to social media platforms, we often talk at each other — mostly about ourselves and our own interests — rather than with each other. When was the last time you were invited to reveal something about yourself? How often have you held a conversation in which the other person asked how you’re doing … and paused to listen for your answer? ~CL
To read a recent essay I wrote about the art of conversation, please click here.
Cindy La Ferle
Throughout my career, I've worked as a book production editor, travel magazine editor, features writer, and weekly newspaper columnist. My award-winning lifestyles features and essays have appeared in many national magazines and anthologies, including Newsweek, Reader's Digest, The Christian Science Monitor, Writer's Digest, Victoria, Better Homes & Gardens, Bella Grace, and more. My weekly Sunday "Life Lines" column ran for 14 years in The Daily Tribune (Royal Oak, MI) and won a First Place (Local Columns) award from the Michigan Press Association. My essay collection, Writing Home, includes 93 previously published columns and essays focusing on parenthood and family life.
2 Comments
Jacqueline
I always look forward to your daily thoughts. Just perfect to give a reader a morning reflection in a short yet impactful way. You once told me in a writing class to keep my blog entries under 400 words or so. That always sticks with me. Thanks for sharing your craft and wisdom. As always it is refeshing.
Jacqueline
Cindy La Ferle
I’m honored by your kindness, Jacqueline. I’m going to check out your blog, too, and apologize for not visiting it more often. Thanks so much for writing.