Day 1502

Our boys love to “play fight”! To the untrained eye, it might look fairly violent, but it’s all in good fun. Gnashing of teeth, growling and evasive maneuvers are all part of the game. Although it makes me nervous, they always shake it off and remain the closest of friends!

It’s like that with some humans as well. Sometimes, there is a playful quality to a verbal interaction, but other times it can be quite serious. Personally, I avoid ANY confrontation of that sort!

There are those moments when you cannot avoid a differing of opinions. There are also times when avoidance is not in the best interest of either party. Harboring anger or frustration can lead to a bigger, less constructive event.

Although, nobody is ever an absolute winner in a verbal sparring, if both parties can listen…really listen, then compromise might be possible. By listening, it seems you must open your heart and mind to the other’s message without spending that time forming a rebuttal. That is not easy if you are in a defensive mode.

When my own children would fight, I would have them hold hands during the ensuing discussion that would follow the altercation. It is hard to stay angry at someone who is looking you in the eyes and touching your hand. This technique works for all ages! Hugging also works.

Next time the adrenaline flows the wrong direction, try asking the “offending party” to explain while you really listen. If all else fails, a hug might just do the trick!