As the official "opening" of my blog, I chose a great little story a friend of mine had posted in his blog. It's quite simple, yet very inspiring. It is really worth reading, particularly in this time of the year when we are bombarded with all sorts of "wish-you-well" messages. Here it goes:
monds and Rubies
Diamonds and Rubies
The evening freeway traffic was slowly winding through the hills. I was driving my Mom home. At 97 years old, she still lives on her own.
“Diamonds and rubies” she said. “What?” I replied. She answered, “The headlights and taillights—they look like strings of diamonds and rubies”.
“Yes” I chuckled. One of her wonderful characteristics is the ability to see, appreciate and comment on the beautiful and the enjoyable in life. Several people on her side of the family had that trait. That strange bunch (refugees from the hills of Transylvania) had to spend a good deal of time and energy dealing with harsh realities. But they always seemed to find ways to enjoy their lives with humor and a knack for finding delight in small things. Good idea—besides putting more pleasure in our lives, it helps keep us youthful.
That trait is also a key part of effective communications. I tell family, friends and clients that a great way to deal with difficult discussions is to first listen to the other people and look for “what I like about that”. Then express your honest appreciation about that part of their concept. You don’t have to agree with everything, but surely there’s some good in their ideas.
Try it in your personal and professional life. You just might find diamonds and rubies.
George M. Pomonik
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