Have you ever “played out” conversations that never happened?
The songbirds in this tree are warbling, changing their tune when a crow visits them. Are they feeling threatened, signaling to others their apprehensions or standing their ground with their affirmative call? While observing the feathered activity which is so foreign to me, I realize that I’m fabricating a story in my mind.
I catch myself doing this frequently…not so much with birds… with friends, family, even strangers. I imagine conversations. Are they thinking about me? The next time I see this person, what will I say? If I act a certain way, will they approve or disapprove?
To what end is this mental chattering? Is it in harmony with being present with others? How is this an obstacle to authenticity and avoiding judgements? Am I giving others the benefit of the doubt? Am I giving myself compassionate messagesWith greater awareness, as these imagined conversations creep in, I’ve been directing them elsewhere. Why? Because I really have no idea what is going on for others. I listen attentively, invite questions, and authentically dialogue by not making assumptions or guessing what others are thinking.
More on assumptions, next time. In the meantime, be aware of your imagined conversations and how setting them aside promotes your authenticity. Share this with others in your life.
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